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.

FTC up to 12 months

Are you a skilled solicitor with experience in the Magistrates' Court or County Court? The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) has an exciting opening for a Solicitor Advocate!

In this challenging yet rewarding position, you'll spend 80% of your week in court handling list work and advocating for alternative sentencing solutions that address addiction-related offences. You'll also have the chance to appear in other criminal matters in both Magistrates' Court and County Court as needed, offering a diverse and engaging workload.

Although you will have a split workload you will be a key player in the County Court Drug and Alcohol Treatment Court (DATC), offering alternative sentencing for individuals impacted by substance dependency.

This position is Melbourne based; however occasional regional travel may be a requirement of the position. A vehicle and overnight accommodation are provided as required.

About the Role:

• Preparing and appearing in the Magistrates' Court including mentions and committal case conferences as well as other matters.
• Engage in discussions with internal and external stakeholders, including Crown Prosecutors, defence solicitors and police informants, to pursue any early resolution opportunities.
• Communicate with victims and witnesses who attend court effectively and sensitively to keep them informed and involved in the prosecution process.

As an ideal candidate you will have:

• A thorough knowledge of Criminal Law and Procedure, including the Criminal Procedure Act, the Bail Act and other relevant legislation.
• The ability to appear in the Magistrates' Court as an advocate in high volume lists.
• The demonstrated ability to take a proactive role in the early settlement of matters.

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

Apply now:

To apply, you will need to submit a resume, cover letter and complete the online questionnaire which is located 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.

Applications close 11:59pm Wednesday 16 October 2024.

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/

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.