Solicitor

About this role

This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented legal professional with strong experience in the criminal jurisdictions of the County and Supreme Courts to join our dynamic team. Based in Geelong, you'll be instrumental in preparing and conducting criminal litigation, making a tangible impact on significant cases. Solicitor. Full time, fixed term until August 2027. Applications close on 11:59pm 10 August 2026. About the role: You'll lead the preparation of moderately complex matters for trial in the County and Supreme Courts of Victoria, skillfully instructing Crown Counsel and preparing cases for prosecution at the committal stage. For those eager to grow, there's even the potential to contribute to highly complex matters under the expert guidance of a Senior Solicitor. This role offers the chance to truly hone your advocacy skills, with opportunities to appear as a solicitor advocate in various hearings. Key Responsibilities Include: • Preparing and instructing counsel in a range of matters, from summary prosecutions to trials, pleas, and other hearings in both the County and Supreme Courts. • Providing timely and astute advice to police, counsel, and senior staff, ensuring the effective prosecution of criminal cases. • Undertaking high-level research, investigation, and analysis of complex issues. • Efficiently managing a large caseload of moderately complex files with limited supervision. • Appearing as a solicitor advocate in hearings and preparing for Magistrates' and County Court List Hearings. About you: What We're Looking For • Demonstrated ability to prepare moderately complex litigation at an advanced level. • A thorough knowledge of Criminal Law and Procedure, the Law of Evidence, and relevant legislation. • Proven competence as a solicitor advocate in routine matters. • High-level interpersonal skills to effectively liaise with diverse stakeholders. • A proactive approach to case settlement and a collaborative team spirit. Qualifications • You must be admitted to the legal profession as an Australian Lawyer. • You must hold or be eligible to hold a current Victorian Practising Certificate. Travel While based in Geelong, regional travel is a requirement, with a vehicle and overnight accommodation provided as needed. This ensures you can fully support cases across Victoria. About Us: The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) is an independent statutory authority responsible for conducting serious criminal prosecutions across Victoria on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Our team, consisting of over 475 skilled professionals, supports the work of the DPP, the Chief Crown Prosecutor, and Crown Prosecutors. We strive to be a criminal justice system leader and a dynamic organisation, continually adapting to deliver effective outcomes for our people and the community. At the heart of the criminal justice system are people – practitioners and the community we serve. Our vision is to lead in legal excellence, fostering an innovative, supportive environment with a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and professional excellence. Apply Now: Applications must contain a resume and cover letter. You will be required to complete the online Key Selection Criteria questions located on the last page of the online application form. A separate document responding to the key selection criteria is not required. Applications close on 11:59pm Monday 10 August 2026. . 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-pub lic-service/ 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.