The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) is an independent statutory authority responsible for preparing and conducting criminal prosecutions in Victoria on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Matters prosecuted by the DPP and the OPP involve serious crimes or matters that are of significance to the fair and effective operation of the Victorian criminal justice system. The OPP consists of the Solicitor for Public Prosecutions and a staff of approximately 475 providing legal and corporate support to the DPP, the Chief Crown Prosecutor and Crown Prosecutors in the exercise of their independent roles in the criminal justice system.

Senior Solicitor Advocate, Advocacy - (Full Time, Fixed Term – Up to 12 Months, 2 positions)

The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) has an opportunity for highly motivated individuals to join our organisation as a Senior Solicitor Advocate within the Advocacy Team.

Successful applicants will have experience in both the Magistrate and County Court criminal jurisdictions, with the incumbent's core work to appear in a wide range of hearings predominantly in the Magistrates' and County Court jurisdictions. 

The position is Melbourne based however, occasional travel to Regional Victoria may be required.

About the Role:

• Prepare and appear in a wide range of matters including County Court appeals, pleas and other applications and Magistrates' Court matters including committal mentions, bail applications, summary jurisdictions applications and pleas.
• Routinely prepare and appear in the Magistrates' Court and County Court jurisdictions that will take up between 70% to 80% of your available time.
• Undertake a high level research, investigation and analysis of large and complex issues.
• Assist and mentor junior Solicitor Advocates in their professional development.

As our ideal candidate you will have:

• Extensive knowledge in criminal law and procedure and the laws relating to evidence, sentencing as well as other relevant legislation
• Demonstrated ability appearing as an Advocate in criminal matters in all facets of the criminal jurisdiction
• Demonstrated high level interpersonal skills.

For further information, please refer to the attached Position Description.

To apply, you will need to submit a resume, cover letter and complete the online questionnaire which can be found on the last page of the application process. This questionnaire will ask you to address some of the Key Selection Criteria which you must complete. Separate responses to the KSC outlined in the position description are not required.

In accordance with the VPS recruitment process all candidates are subject to complete a pre-employment misconduct screening declaration. Further information is available on the VPSC website: https://vpsc.vic.gov.au/resources/pre-employment-screening-misconduct-victorian-public-service/

Applications close 11:59pm Monday 25 September 2023

The OPP is committed to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. People from all cultural backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, particularly applicants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, or those who may experience disability related barriers in securing employment. If you require assistance with the recruitment process, or have accessibility requirements please contact recruit.info@opp.vic.gov.au

Persons considering applying for these positions should note that the recruitment process may be used to fill a commensurate position/s within 3 months of the completion of the recruitment without any further advertisement or interview. Please note this recruitment process, including interviews, will be conducted remotely.