Position Title Solicitor – Custody Notification Service
Salary Crim LO1.1 – 1.2 ($73,553–$76,539)
+ shift penalties + allowances + super + salary packaging option
FTE Full time or part time
Location Remote/WFH
Commencement Immediately / negotiable
Positions 1
Reports to CNS Coordinator

This role has the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within Australia

About NAAJA

The North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) is a leading not-for-profit organisation that provides legal services and advocacy to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Northern Territory. NAAJA’s legal practice provides high quality, culturally proficient and accessible advice, casework and court advocacy in both criminal and civil law.

What we offer

  • Salary packaging options up to $18,450 per annum tax free
  • Remote allowance of $3,300 per annum (if applicable)
  • Annual airfare allowance
  • 6 weeks annual leave
  • 3 weeks personal leave
  • Relocation allowance

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate and skilled Custody Notification Service (CNS) Solicitor to join our team. The CNS Solicitor will be placed on a roster where they will be on-call 24 hours a day for periods of up to 7 days, by negotiation, to provide 24-hour legal support and information via a phone line for Aboriginal people taken into police custody. The role involves being on-call for shifts, including weekends, public holidays, and after hours, to offer legal advice and ensure the safety and welfare of individuals in custody.

Key Duties

  • Provide considered, independent and professional legal advice over the CNS phone line to Aboriginal people in police custody.
  • Assess welfare risks and ensure appropriate duty of care notifications are made.
  • Contact families of those in custody to provide support and information.
  • Maintain accurate records and CNS documentation.
  • Liaise with the CNS Coordinator and other staff to ensure effective service delivery.
  • Stay up-to-date with changes in criminal law and practice.
  • Develop and maintain professional working relationships with all staff members.

Selection Criteria

We are looking for someone who is committed to supporting Aboriginal people, particularly in their interactions with the legal system:

  • Legal qualifications and a current NT Practising Certificate (or eligibility to obtain one).
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively with clients in custody, their families, and police.
  • A strong understanding of the cultural and social needs of Aboriginal people and a respectful approach to working with Aboriginal communities.
  • Knowledge of criminal law, including up-to-date practices and procedures.
  • A capacity to work independently, manage a diverse workload, and meet deadlines.
  • A commitment to promoting Workplace Health & Safety, ethical practice, and diversity in the workplace.

Requirements

  • Ability to obtain a “Working with Children Clearance” (Ochre Card) upon commencement.
  • Satisfactory criminal history check.
  • Current NT Practicing Certificate.

How to apply

Applicants for this position must submit a cover letter and resume addressing the essential criteria.

Enquiries can be sent to Recruitment@naaja.org.au.

The closing date for applicants is COB Monday 06 January 2025.

For more information see position description CNS Solicitor – Duty Statement

Suitably qualified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.