Assistant Office Public Defender

Role overview

The Public Defence Service is seeking an accomplished criminal litigator to join its Wellington office as Assistant Office Public Defender. In this position, you will report to the Office Public Defender and contribute to both the local office leadership group and the wider Public Defence Service.

What the role involves

• Playing a key role in the leadership of the office and the broader organisation.
• Helping drive operational and strategic priorities across the Public Defence Service.
• Delivering legal services that are both effective and efficient.
• Managing and guiding a team of lawyers on a day-to-day basis.
• Building external relationships that support stronger legal service delivery.

Skills and experience required

Applicants should be strongly committed to criminal justice and bring the following background:

• Proven leadership capability, with experience in supervising, coaching, mentoring, and training people.
• A genuine interest in criminal justice issues.
• A history of developing productive working relationships with internal teams and outside stakeholders.
• A PAL 3 or PAL 4 legal aid listing, or the ability to obtain one, supported by substantial experience handling a range of criminal matters in court.
• Capacity to balance management responsibilities with active courtroom practice in PAL 3 and PAL 4 cases.

About the organisation

The Public Defence Service is part of the Ministry of Justice and sits within the wider justice sector. The Ministry supports the service through centralised business services, infrastructure, and operational support. The PDS provides high-quality legal advice and representation across the full range of criminal cases, with a strong focus on helping people access justice. Its values include respect, integrity, service, and excellent client care.

Te Tāhū o te Ture welcomes people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities, and religions.

What you’ll get

• Access to a structured national training programme.
• Opportunities for professional development and conference attendance.
• Ongoing professional supervision.
• A laptop and mobile phone.

Salary

The salary for this position is expected to fall between $149,972 and $206,570, depending on your skills and experience.

Application details

To apply, use the application process provided by the employer, upload your CV and cover letter, and complete the online form. The closing date is 9 July 2026. Applications may be reviewed as they arrive, and interviews could begin before the deadline. For questions, contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz.