Positions Vacant

Volunteer

Organisational Context

North and North West Community Legal Service (‘NNWCLS’) is a regionally based generalist legal service. We strive to support the least advantaged members of our community, especially those who have difficulty accessing the legal system. Based in Armidale and surrounds, our staff are committed to providing legal advice, Court appearance and other support throughout the New England and North West regions of NSW.

Standards and Expectations

The Law Student (Work Experience Placement) must adhere to NNWCLS’s standards and expectations:

1. Honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct at all times;
2. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including tolerance and the capacity to develop rapport with a wide range of stakeholders;
3. Supporting staff to achieve their highest standard of work; and
4. High levels of motivation, initiative, and innovation.

Position Profile

As a Law Student undertaking a work experience placement at the North and Northwest Community Legal Service, you will assist lawyers in providing legal services to the community, with a focus on drafting legal documents and supporting administrative functions.

Accountability

The Law Student (Work Experience Placement) will report to the Principal Solicitor, and will be accountable for undertaking all activities in line with organisational policies, procedures, and regulatory and legislative requirements. They will contribute to projects and teams, and ensure that they keep the Principal Solicitor, as well as relevant staff, briefed throughout. They will strive to exceed quality work standards and customer service satisfaction levels.

Key Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

Legal Support

• Assist lawyers in drafting wills, powers of attorney, and enduring guardianship documents.
• Conduct legal research and summarising relevant legislation as required.
• Draft correspondence to clients and stakeholders.
• Telephone clients and take file notes.

Administrative Support

• Manage client files, ensuring accurate documentation and confidentiality.
• Perform general administrative tasks, including data entry and filing.
• Provide general assistance to staff and solicitors.

Workplace Health and Safety (WHS)

Contribute to a safe and healthy workplace by:

• Following WHS instructions, policies and procedures;
• Reporting accidents and hazards and addressing potential risks;
• Working to ensure both your own and others’ safety; and
• Actively participating in WHS meetings, suggesting improved risk and hazard mitigation.