Paralegal (Oct 2023)

Job Description:

Objective: To assist the Corporate Solicitor in providing legal services and advice to meet the needs of Boroondara Council, while maintaining professionalism in liaisons with stakeholders.

Position Overview: Boroondara Council is seeking a law student who will commence their 4th year of a double degree in 2024 (or in the penultimate year of their degree in 2024) to work 2 days a week in the Council's Legal Office. The ideal candidate should have a Distinction grade average with excellent grades in Real Estate law. The student is expected to begin their role in late October 2023.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Conduct legal research and draft advice.
2. Review contracts and agreements.
3. Draft legal documents.
4. Provide training to Internal Liaisons.
5. Manage case files and maintain records.
6. Communicate effectively with Internal and External Liaisons.

Selection Criteria:

• Consistent academic performance.
• Proficiency in IT systems and Microsoft Office.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated initiative and independence.
• Excellent time management.
• Attention to detail.

HSW and Risk Management:

• Follow safe working practices.
• Ensure Health, Safety, and Well-being for self and colleagues.
• Seek assistance when needed.

Organizational Responsibilities:

• Contribute to Council and departmental goals.
• Attend and engage in relevant meetings.

Employment Requirements:

• Current National Police Records Check.
• Employee Working with Children Clearance (if applicable).
• Adherence to policies, procedures, and Codes of Conduct.
• Maintain accurate records in the Corporate System Objective.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND EXTENT OF AUTHORITY:

• Assist the Corporate Solicitor in providing an effective in-house legal service to the organization.
• Maintain accountability for the quality of work and ensure efficient administrative support for the department.
• Serve as the point of contact for the department and maintain communications with internal and external stakeholders.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.

JUDGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING:

• Exercise professional judgment and knowledge in performing duties.
• Articulate the reasons for decisions.
• Create and implement solutions to issues.
• Seek guidance and counsel when needed within the established timeframes.

SPECIALIST SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain composed under pressure, especially during periods of high workloads and tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in operating within a Microsoft environment and using document management systems.
• Familiarity with legal terminology and issues is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Knowledge of Local Government processes is advantageous.
• Ideally, completion of law units such as LAW20013 (Property Law) and LAW20014 (Land Law).

MANAGEMENT SKILLS:

• Demonstrated strong time management skills, including planning, organizing, and prioritizing work based on urgency.
• Adaptability and flexibility to accommodate colleagues' schedules and adapt to rapid changes.
• Ability to make effective and timely decisions.
• Achievement of objectives within established timetables.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS:

• High-level oral and written communication skills with internal and external liaisons.
• Ability to establish and nurture strong rapport while maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Capacity to discuss and resolve problems.
• Demonstrated a proactive and dedicated approach to all tasks.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Highly developed customer service skills, with a focus on professionalism, diplomacy, discretion, courtesy, and confidentiality.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Candidates should be entering their 4th year of study in 2024.
• Candidates entering their 5th year of study in 2024 will also be considered.