Solicitor/Graduate - Wellington
About us
Cooper Legal is a medium-sized, specialist litigation firm, based in Thorndon, Wellington. Our core work is seeking redress for people who suffered abuse as children or vulnerable adults in a range of contexts, primarily State and faith-based care environments.
We do this work through the courts and through pastoral and alternative processes. We have also been heavily involved with the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, and continue to be involved with the Commission while it writes its final report.
Our firm was recently awarded ‘Most Empowering Human Rights Litigation Firm 2023 - New Zealand’ at the APAC Insider Legal Awards 2022.As Solicitor/Senior Solicitor, you will be meeting with survivors of abuse, analysing historical records and advocating for a positive resolution of their grievances. You will be working individually and also collaboratively with others within our friendly firm.
This role is as challenging as it is rewarding – the work that we do really matters.
About you
Ideally you will have 1-4 years’ PQE, but we will consider a graduate who has completed the Professionals course, who has good grades in tort, family law, civil procedure or similar papers, and who shares our passion for the work we do.We are also open to receiving applications from more senior lawyers who are interested in joining our team.
Our clients reflect the most damaged and marginalised people in our society. You need to be resilient and equipped to deal with challenging situations and challenging topics. Good people skills and an understanding of working with vulnerable people are essential.
Excellent communication skills are essential, as is the ability to analyse and communicate complex information in a persuasive and coherent manner.
We are looking for individuals with experience and confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds, including Maori, Pacific and people with disabilities. This includes any experience with tikanga Maori and working in trauma-informed ways.We welcome enquiries from all people, including all ethnicities, LBQTIA+ and disabled communities.
A full driver license is required.Further information about the firm and the work that we do can be found at www.cooperlegal.co.nz
Please email your CV, academic transcript, and an application letter to david@cooperlegal.co.nz
Closing date: 18 July 2025