Expressions of Interest: NT Pro Bono Relief Scheme

07/02/2020

The NT Pro Bono Relief Scheme is a new pilot program which is being coordinated by the Law Council of Australia and the Law Society Northern Territory. It will offer a unique opportunity for lawyers around Australia to work in the Northern Territory assisting or relieving local lawyers in the Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission and the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency for periods of between 1-2 weeks.

Northern Territorian lawyers in these agencies do some of the most important legal work in Australia, representing some of our society’s most vulnerable people. The profession does an exceptional job in the face of extraordinary challenges, including a substantial and difficult caseload, significant under-resourcing and under-funding. You can help.

The Law Council of Australia and the Northern Territory Law Society are currently seeking expressions of interest for lawyers to work pro bono for 1-2 weeks assisting the Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission and the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency in relation to Court matters which are listed in Darwin and Alice Springs.

Successful applicants will have:

• a current practising certificate;
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• cultural competency;
• a proven ability to exercise initiative and take direction, work independently and in a small team;
• a demonstrated ability to work under pressure, prioritise work and meet deadlines in high pressure environments.

Barristers and solicitors undertaking this work will be unpaid.

Solicitors and barristers with at least 5 years PQE are encouraged to apply. Experience in child protection, domestic family violence or criminal law is necessary.

To apply, please send the following to Michelle Nisbet at mnisbet@nswbar.asn.au:

a. A Curriculum Vitae, including contact details of two professional referees;

b. A Personal Statement outlining your relevant experience (500 words or less) and why you would like to participate (500 words or less);

c. An indication of your availability to participate in the scheme in 2020.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application to assist

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