Full time maximum term position up to 12 months Salary range: $104,925 - $131,153 plus super Up to $15,900 in salary packaging, flexible hybrid work arrangement About the role The Indictable Crime team are seeking an experienced criminal lawyer to provide high quality legal advice and representation to clients. You will act as a senior lawyer by conducting complex criminal casework management, in-court advocacy, duty lawyer services (including rostered night and weekend duties in the Bail and Remand Court) and advice sessions regarding serious criminal law matters. You will contribute to the professional development of the in-house legal practice by mentoring and supervising less experienced lawyers and participate in professional legal education when required. This presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced criminal lawyer looking to develop their leadership and mentoring skills whilst contributing to the strategic direction of the program focused on improving services provided to priority clients. We're recruiting for a senior criminal lawyer, at either Work Value Range 4.1 or 4.2 (depending on skills and experience) through a single, integrated process. Apply once to be considered for the level that best aligns with your experience and strengths. As a Senior Lawyer (4.1) (Salary range: $104,925 - $122,409), you will be required to: Deliver high-quality legal services in Indictable Crime matters. Supervise and mentor junior lawyers and contribute to team capability. Appear in complex matters in the Magistrates' Court. Build strong relationships with local courts, agencies, and community partners. As a Senior Lawyer (4.2) (salary range: $113,668 - $131,153), you'll do all the above plus: Provide technical leadership and advanced advocacy in complex Indictable Crime matters. Supervise and support other senior lawyers across the team. Lead strategic legal initiatives and contribute to practice development and systemic advocacy. Your level will be assessed as part of the recruitment process. If you're unsure which level to apply for – just apply! This role is based at our Melbourne CBD office on Wurundjeri Country. About you We're seeking senior lawyers who are: Technically strong in Indictable Crime matters. Experienced advocates who exercise sound judgment and demonstrate compassion and cultural awareness. Collaborative and capable of coaching others in a supportive team environment. Values-driven and committed to improving access to justice in Victoria. Don't meet every requirement? At VLA, we understand that your work and life experiences can be just as valuable. If your CV doesn't align perfectly with our job description, we strongly encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate. About VLA We offer legal representation, family dispute resolution and non-legal advocacy to those who need it most. With over 1400 staff employed in 16 offices across Victoria, we help people with their legal problems by providing information, advice and education with a focus on the prevention and early resolution of legal problems. Our clients come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds and foster a work culture that's inclusive as well as diverse. Your unique ideas and perspectives are valued so that we best represent the people we serve. Employee benefits A focus on work-life balance, including flexible working arrangements Hybrid work from home & office model Generous leave benefits, including: Three days paid seasonal leave (to be taken between Boxing Day and New Year's Day public holidays) Paid gender affirmation leave Five days both paid reproductive and fertility leave per calendar year Annual 3% salary increase each December plus performance-related salary incentives Attractive salary packaging options including General Expenses up to $15,900, Meals & Entertainment up to $2,650 PLUS Novated Leasing Discounted annual Myki public transport passes Individual learning and professional development opportunities, tailored to your role and career goals Free annual flu vaccinations Access to gym and end-of-trip facilities at our CBD office Access to our Employee Assistance Program, including confidential counselling and access to a range of mental health and wellbeing resources. How to apply To be considered for this role, please submit your current resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria . If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team . For further information, please review the attached position description or contact Will Collins-Putland, Managing Lawyer on (03) 9269 0494 or recruitment@vla.vic.gov.au . No agency applications will be accepted. Applications close by 11.59pm on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Other relevant information It is a requirement that staff attend for office-based days at their primary work location. In line with this requirement, interstate applications will be considered only where the candidate is able and willing to relocate to Victoria, unless part of a border community. VLA is committed to putting the safety and wellbeing of children first.
