Solicitor – Litigation and Local Government

About the role

Cooney Lees Morgan is seeking a qualified solicitor to join its Litigation and Local Government practice. The role involves a mix of resource management, local authority advisory work and civil litigation, including appearances before the Environment Court.

Key responsibilities

• Advise clients on planning, environmental matters and consent processes.
• Interpret and apply local authority requirements and regulatory frameworks.
• Represent clients in Environment Court proceedings and other civil litigation matters.
• Conduct legal research and prepare written opinions.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and network with potential referrers.

Required profile

• NZ‑admitted solicitor with a minimum of 2 years post‑qualification experience.
• Experience in resource management, local government or regulatory prosecutions is advantageous.
• Strong research and opinion‑writing abilities with attention to detail.
• Advocacy experience at council level or in the Environment Court (preferred but not essential).
• Logical, solution‑focused problem‑solver with a client‑service mindset.

Required skills

What we offer

• Diverse, complex legal matters across litigation and resource management.
• Supportive team culture with a rich firm history.
• Free on‑site parking.
• Generous parental leave, including topped‑up leave for primary carers.
• Birthday leave, discounted health insurance and employee assistance programme.
• Regular professional development seminars, wellbeing workshops and social events.
• Annual salary reviews.