Assistant Office Public Defender

About the role

The Public Defence Service (PDS) is seeking an experienced criminal litigator to join its Wellington office as Assistant Office Public Defender. Reporting to the Office Public Defender, you will be a key member of the office leadership team and help drive both operational and strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the office leadership team and support PDS’s strategic goals.
• Deliver high‑quality legal services to clients, handling PAL 3 and PAL 4 criminal matters.
• Provide day‑to‑day management and leadership of a team of lawyers.
• Mentor, coach and train junior staff.
• Develop and maintain external relationships that enhance service delivery.

Required profile

• Passion for criminal justice and strong commitment to public defence.
• Proven leadership and people‑management experience, including mentoring and coaching.
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Current PAL 3 or PAL 4 legal‑aid listing, or eligibility to obtain one.
• Significant experience conducting a variety of criminal matters before New Zealand courts.

Required skills

• PAL 3 or PAL 4 legal‑aid qualification.
• Extensive criminal litigation experience.
• Leadership and team‑management capabilities.

What we offer

• Access to a national training programme and professional development opportunities.
• Support for conference attendance and a professional supervision programme.
• Laptop, mobile phone and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Salary range $149,972 – $206,570 per year, dependent on experience.