Judges Clerk 2026 | Wellington Chief Judge's Chambersat NZ Ministry of Justice68,845 - 83,135

apartmentNZ Ministry of Justice placeWellington calendar_month 
CHIEF DISTRICT COURT JUDGE'S CHAMBERSTE WHARE O NGĀ KAIHAUTŪ WAKA O TE KŌTI-Ā-ROHE O AOTEAROAJudge's Clerk to the Chief District Court JudgeHis Honour Judge Heemi Taumaunu Te Haeata/The OpportunityThe Ministry of Justice invites applications for the position of Judge's Clerk to the Chief District Court Judge (Chief Judge).

The position offers new graduates the opportunity to work closely with the Chief Judge for up to three years, gaining insight into the judicial process and broad exposure to the administration of the District Court of New Zealand, te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa.The Judge's Clerk will:undertake legal research and draft legal opinions for the Chief Judgeassist with policy development, and the drafting of protocols and practice notes for the District Courtassist with projects relating to the administration of the District Court, including the provision of legal advice on strategic and operational matters relevant to the District Court judiciarykeep up to date with changes in the law relevant to the District Court.

This may include writing and circulating explanatory memoranda or case notes either at the request of the Chief Judge or on your own initiativeundertake administrative duties including taking minutes for judicial committee meetingsrespond to legal and procedural queriesprovide legal research for conference papers and speecheson occasion, assist the Chief Judge with legal research to support judgment writing.
The Judge's Clerk will report directly to the Chief Judge. This is a full-time permanent position based in Wellington. Ō pūkenga/Skills and ExperienceThe successful applicant will have:a law degree with excellent academic achievement, particularly in criminal law.
Electives such as criminal procedure, evidence, civil procedure, te Tiriti o Waitangi and tikanga Māori or Māori customary law are of benefitan excellent understanding of tikanga and te reo Māori is desirableexcellent and accurate written and communication skillsproblem-solving skillsqualities such as self-motivation, efficiency and initiative, and the ability to work independently and without supervisionexcellent organisational and time management skills.
Mō mātou/About us At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.The District Court is the largest court in Australasia. Most New Zealanders who go to court will go through the entire justice process in the District Court.

Each year, more than 200 Judges, acting Judges, Community Magistrates and Judicial Justices' of the Peace in 58 courthouses deal with approximately 200,000 criminal, family, youth and civil matters. For more information please visit us on Home | The District Court of New Zealand (districtcourts.govt.nz) Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.

Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working hereWe offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be. See our full range of benefits here.With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.

Utu ā-tau/SalaryThe starting salary is $68,845 with an opportunity to progress in six-monthly increments to $83,135 pa. Tono mai/ApplyTo apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.If you wish to apply for this position please include your University transcript in your application pack and a copy of a recent legal opinion, thesis, essay or memorandum you have completed that should not exceed 2000 words.The successful applicant will be expected to start early in 2026.

All applications will be considered, including from those who are currently studying, but expect to complete studies at the end of 2025.Applications close on 2 November; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and may invite successful candidates to interview before the close date.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nzFollow us on LinkedIn

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