You will have strong and demonstrated advocacy experience and a sound knowledge of Family Law, Child Protection, Domestic & Family Violence law and victims’ assistance applications. You will also have a minimum of 3 years post admission experience . You will also possess a current Open Drivers Licence and you must be eligible to work in Australia. A cultural appreciation/understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is essential or having worked previously with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients would be advantageous. Operational Functions: Provide legal advice, advocacy and legal casework representation in a culturally meaningful manner and to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are victims of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault are provided with quality legal services, representation, advice and casework. Prepare and/or instruct in court and tribunal, and other hearings in the Magistrates Court, Family Court, Federal Circuit Court and Domestic Violence Specialist Court, and other places as required. Preparation includes- Ensuring that all documentation is filed and served within legislative and court directed time frames Assessing evidentiary material for admissibility and appropriate resolution including assessments of merit Undertaking legal research, consultation and liaison to gather information on specific issues Provision of written and verbal advice and analysis to clients Preparing accurate and comprehensive file notes on legal issues arising out of files, including providing legal advice within agreed time limits Managing a range of interpersonal interactions both internal and external. Interpreting and applying legislation. Manage allocated files to comply with NACLC Risk Management Guide and QIFVLS operating and legal case management Guide. Ensure that cases are competently, efficiently and expeditiously prepared and properly presented. Pursue resolution of individual allocated cases in a proactive manner at all stages of the process ensuring that the best interests of the client are met. Take into account the needs of victims in accordance with the relevant legislation. Coach/mentor, support and guide Paralegals and Family advocates to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are victims of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault are provided with quality legal services, representation, advice and casework. Work with the Paralegals and Family advocates to help clients understand and navigate the family law system, child protection system or victim assistance application process. Provide and support appropriate client referrals to the PLO in consultation with the Family Advocate for high needs or vulnerable clients, applying a holistic support approach. Treat clients and colleagues with respect and tact, bearing in mind individual needs, and ensuring confidentiality at all times. Promptly respond to all written and oral communications from clients, external parties and stakeholders. Ensure that all paper and electronic files are up-to-date and accurate, and your file register is maintained in a state of readiness. Ensure that all client files and other documents are well organised and displayed, and comply with all internal and external procedures and requirements. Achieve performance targets and agreed standards. Undertake training and development activities, as recommended by the PLO Network and liaise with community organisations, men and women’s groups, legal service providers, government departments and community justice groups to enable QIFVLS to effectively promote its services. Represent QIFVLS within the community by attending and presenting at meetings, functions and forums in a manner consistent with QIFVLS’ professional standards and code of conduct. Present Community Legal Education sessions in accordance with office KPI’s. Regular and extensive travel to deliver outreach legal services to remote communities including attending at circuit courts. Maintain high levels of privacy and confidentiality.
