Legal & Research Counsel (Fixed-Term, Auckland)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Legal & Research Counsel to join our team on a fixed-term basis until January 2027. The role supports New Zealand’s Coroners and the Coroners Court by drafting findings, conducting legal research and providing high-quality advice.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare initial drafts of Coroners’ findings and recommendations under the direction of Coroners and the team manager.
• Conduct legal research for the Chief Coroner or individual Coroners.
• Assist in the Coroners Court, either as counsel or junior counsel, requiring a practising certificate.
• Analyse legislation, coronial and medical law.
• Provide high-quality legal and research support to Coroners and the Coroners Court, and may assist with inquests.

Required profile

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – mandatory.
• 1-2 years or more post‑qualification experience (PQE).
• Excellent drafting, spelling, grammar and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and time‑management skills, able to meet legal deadlines.
• Resilience to work with sensitive and traumatic material.
• Understanding of Te Ao Māori, Te Reo Māori and related tikanga.
• Ability to obtain a practising certificate in New Zealand.

Required skills

• Legal drafting
• Legal research
• Knowledge of coronial and medical law

What we offer

• Pro‑rated salary between $74,634 and $95,591 NZD, likely between $82,694 and $87,531 NZD.
• Opportunity to contribute to public safety and work with a unique segment of the judiciary.
• Exposure to a specialised area of law and meaningful community impact.