Job Description
About the Role:
As a Principal Solicitor Advocate, you will play a key role in the preparation and conduct of the Division's highly complex criminal matters, including committals, Country Court plea hearings, and appeals, Supreme Court bail applications as well as other routine matters. There may also be the opportunity to appear in appropriate trials. You will spend a large part of your week in court, handling challenging cases that require advanced legal expertise, highly-developed advocacy skills nuanced decision-making, and creative problem-solving. This is an opportunity to lead in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, where you'll need to respond to new and emerging legal issues while applying innovative solutions to complex scenarios.
You will work closely with a range of stakeholders, including instructing solicitors from the OPP, Crown Prosecutors, Defence teams, Victoria Police and the Courts. You will also be involved in high-level victim engagement. You will also contribute to the development of internal resources and strategies that support both the team and your professional growth. This role will allow you to demonstrate leadership, while embracing a culture of innovation in a continually evolving legal landscape.
About you:
As a Principal Solicitor Advocate, you will bring extensive experience in preparing and appearing in complex criminal cases and a deep understanding of criminal law and related legislation. You will demonstrate advanced legal and advocacy skills, while mentoring junior lawyers to develop their expertise in complex legal matters.
What You Will Bring:
In-depth knowledge of Criminal Law, Evidence Law, and relevant legislation, with experience handling complex cases.
Proven advocacy experience in complex criminal matters.
Expertise in legal research and analysis under time constraints.
Strong negotiation skills with a proactive approach to settlements.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
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, cover letter.
You will be required 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 11.5+pm Monday 14 April 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-public-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.
As a Principal Solicitor Advocate, you will play a key role in the preparation and conduct of the Division's highly complex criminal matters, including committals, Country Court plea hearings, and appeals, Supreme Court bail applications as well as other routine matters. There may also be the opportunity to appear in appropriate trials. You will spend a large part of your week in court, handling challenging cases that require advanced legal expertise, highly-developed advocacy skills nuanced decision-making, and creative problem-solving. This is an opportunity to lead in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, where you'll need to respond to new and emerging legal issues while applying innovative solutions to complex scenarios.
You will work closely with a range of stakeholders, including instructing solicitors from the OPP, Crown Prosecutors, Defence teams, Victoria Police and the Courts. You will also be involved in high-level victim engagement. You will also contribute to the development of internal resources and strategies that support both the team and your professional growth. This role will allow you to demonstrate leadership, while embracing a culture of innovation in a continually evolving legal landscape.
About you:
As a Principal Solicitor Advocate, you will bring extensive experience in preparing and appearing in complex criminal cases and a deep understanding of criminal law and related legislation. You will demonstrate advanced legal and advocacy skills, while mentoring junior lawyers to develop their expertise in complex legal matters.
What You Will Bring:
In-depth knowledge of Criminal Law, Evidence Law, and relevant legislation, with experience handling complex cases.
Proven advocacy experience in complex criminal matters.
Expertise in legal research and analysis under time constraints.
Strong negotiation skills with a proactive approach to settlements.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
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, cover letter.
You will be required 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 11.5+pm Monday 14 April 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-public-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.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Principal Solicitor Advocate position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Melbourne offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Legal Jobs is a plus.
