Paralegal

Posted on: November 8, 2024
SCHADS Award Level: Level 4/2 to 4/3 (depending on experience)
Job location: Darwin
Remuneration: Salary $87,344.30 to $89,588.72 per annum. Equivalent salary range with packaging approx. $96,406 to $98,652 per annum. As a Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) NAAFLS can offer up to $15,899 per annum of the salary, Tax-free as a fringe benefit (conditions apply).
Hours of work: Monday to Thursday 8:15am – 4:30pm, Friday 8:30am – 4:00pm
Employment Type: Full-time ongoing position (subject to funding)
Superannuation: 11.5%
Leave Entitlement: 6 weeks per annum plus 17.5% leave loading
Reports To: Principal Legal Officer
Closing date: 25/11/2024
ABOUT NAAFLS
NAAFLS is a non-government Aboriginal Corporation providing legal advice, representation and community legal education to Aboriginal people living in Communities and small towns across the Top End of the NT. We provide advice and representation to victims of Domestic Violence, including Family Law clients and to victims who are the subject of Child Protection Applications or Orders. Other work includes Victims of Crime Compensation Claims and assistance and support with housing applications.
NAAFLS has offices in Darwin, Katherine and Nhulunbuy and assists clients in over 44 remote communities. Regular travel to these communities is predominantly in line with the Darwin and Katherine Court Circuit calendars and requires our team to stay overnight on community for up to two trips of 2-4 days per month.
Teams consist of a Solicitor and Case Worker who provide a wrap around holistic service to our vulnerable clients to ensure they are fully supported through their journey.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide a high level of paralegal support to solicitors.
Ensure accurate legal client files and timely data entry using NAAFLS' electronic file management system, Actionstep.
Proactively assist solicitors and clients with legal matters including completion of legal documents under the supervision of the Principal Legal Officer (PLO).
Undertake legal and policy research tasks as directed.
Contribute to ensuring a quality, culturally proficient service.
Prepare briefs and other materials including the drafting of documents.
Participate in the development and delivery of community legal education programs in respect to domestic and family violence and other areas relevant to our service delivery.
Contribute to the ongoing development and maintenance of processes and procedures to ensure consistent and accurate services to clients.
Prepare submissions, articles and reports for presentation at conferences and public forums as required.
Promote and maintain safe work practices in accordance with NAAFLS WH&S Policies and Procedures.
Undertake other duties as required.

DUTIES

Work within NAAFLS service delivery model to provide paralegal support to NAAFLS solicitor.
Draft documents and briefs under supervision of the PLO.
Maintain accurate legal client files and timely data entry.
Assist with legal and policy research tasks.
Participate in file review meetings.
Undertake community travel as required.
Adhere to NAAFLS policies and procedures.
Build a positive culture within the service which is aligned with NAAFLS' values and Strategic Plan.
Participate in all staff and team meetings as required.
Undertake training/professional development in consultation with the PLO.
Maintain safe work practices in accordance with NAAFLS WH&S Policies and Procedures.
Undertake other duties as reasonably directed.

SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential

Completing the final year of study towards a law degree.
Possess organisational skills, initiative, ability to determine priorities and meet deadlines.
Possess excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and ethical standards.
Experience in the use of electronic file management systems.
Awareness of issues in promoting the safety and wellbeing of Aboriginal people in the NAAFLS service area.
Demonstrated ability to perform as a reliable, productive and constructive team member in a multi-cultural workplace.
Availability to undertake overnight travel to remote communities as required.
Must obtain a Working With Children Clearance (WWCC) and a clear Criminal History Check.
Possess a current 'C' Class NT Drivers Licence.

Desirable

Completion of a law degree and undertaking an admission to practice course.
Experience in a law firm, court or a not-for-profit legal service.
Understanding of the litigation and dispute resolution processes relevant to family law, domestic violence orders, crimes compensation and child protection being a distinct advantage.

Information for Applicants: Applications for this position must address the selection criteria in a one-page summary sheet outlining how you meet the selection criteria and send this with your current resume/cv to ******.
Additional Information: Email ****** if you require any additional information.

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