Solicitor (VPS 4)

Policy and Specialised Legal Division

(Fixed Term – Up to 12 Months)

The OPP has an exciting opportunity for solicitors to join our Policy and Specialised Legal Division.  The position suits candidates with experience in criminal law and a sound understanding of the laws of evidence and criminal procedure.

The Policy and Specialised Legal Division (PASL) plays a key role in supporting the DPP, OPP Executive and legal practice. It engages in specialised legal work such as advice to external agencies, collaborates with the legal practice on law reform consultations and other projects and supports solicitors working on prosecution files when issues like potential suppression order breaches arise

The incumbent will work in a dynamic environment, with changing priorities and should possess the ability to work in an agile manner, contributing to and embracing innovative solutions and ways of working.

Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options are available.

About the Role:

• Undertake a range of complex legal work as required across a number of specialised portfolios.
• Undertake research and analysis of legal issues and provide advice as required, to external agencies including Counsel, OPP Staff, Crown Prosecutors, the Executive and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to ensure the effective prosecution of cases.
• Work effectively and co-operatively with other staff to ensure the efficient processing of files and tasks, including the dissemination of relevant legal and policy knowledge within PASL and throughout the OPP.

As our ideal candidate you will have:

• A thorough knowledge of Criminal Law and Procedure and the Law of Evidence as well as other relevant legislation
• Demonstrated ability to prepare litigation of moderate complexity at an advanced level
• High level interpersonal skills with the ability to liaise effectively with relevant stakeholders such as OPP staff, Crown Prosecutors, complainants, witnesses, police, counsel and members of the public

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

The Office is committed to providing a safe working environment for staff and may require employees to be fully vaccinated against preventable diseases such as, coronavirus (COVID-19) and other transmissible diseases based on Victorian Chief Health Officer's Directions as issued and updated from time to time.  Where relevant, proof of immunisation status may be required.

To apply, you will need to submit a resume, cover letter and complete the online questionnaire which can be found on the last page of the application process. This questionnaire will ask you to address the Key Selection Criteria.

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/

Applications close 11:59PM Sunday 26^th of March 2023

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.