Judges Clerks (Jan 2027)

Join the senior courts as a Judges' Clerk, conducting legal research and supporting judges in New Zealand's Supreme, Appeal, and High Courts.Your RoleKey responsibilities include : Conducting legal research at the direction of assigned judges.Preparing written legal opinions and collating authorities on specific points of law.Providing comments on draft judgments and proofreading for errors before delivery.Writing summaries of recent court decisions and analyzing issues in appeals or hearings.Assisting with preparation of speeches and some administrative tasks for judges.Working primarily with one judge in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, and typically two judges in the High Court, with possible circuit travel.About YouThe company is looking for : Students completing an undergraduate law degree by

• with a very high level of academic ability.Proficiency in legal research; an Honours degree is not essential.Commitment to upholding human rights, dignity, and equity including gender, ethnic, socio-economic, and cultural aspects.Cultural competence, knowledge of Te Tiriti, and understanding of tikanga.Sound understanding of the judiciary's role and judicial independence in Aotearoa New Zealand.Absolute commitment to confidentiality.Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise and manage workflows.Skill and sensitivity in handling important relationships.Professional, focused, self-motivated, and able to cope with stress.Ability to grasp unfamiliar concepts quickly, lateral and critical thinking skills.Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues and court staff.Commitment to producing quality work consistently under tight deadlines.A broad legal education, preferably including Evidence and Company Law.Compensation & BenefitsStarting salary of $69,845 per annum effective 26 February
• .Salary progression in six-month increments : $74,115 after 6 months, $78,409 after 12 months, and $81,272 after 18 months.Support services available to assist with exposure to graphic or confronting material.How to ApplyComplete a law degree or be in final stages of completion.International applicants must complete required conversion papers and obtain New Zealand work authorisation before applying.Submit one application via the Ministry of Justice careers website including : A brief covering letter stating attraction to the role, strengths as a candidate, preferred and unavailable locations.A 2-3 page curriculum vitae with personal, academic, professional, and referee details.An academic transcript (certified digital or unofficial).

A significant piece of legal writing, complete and no more than 50 pages.Forward a copy of the application to the Dean of your Law School.Include referee contact details in your CV; referees will be contacted for suitability assessment.Applications will be reviewed by judges administering recruitment for respective courts.This job may close before the stated closing date, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible

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