Each year opportunities arise for Associates to work with the Justices of the Supreme Court. It is an invaluable experience especially if you are interested in a career in litigation where you will be exposed to a range of work across multiple jurisdictions including civil, criminal and the Court of Appeal.
The position provides an opportunity to gain practical experience of court process and to apply legal training to the operational requirements of the Court by working directly with Judiciary of this Court.
An Associate provides legal and administrative assistance, both in and out of court. Associates liaise with the judiciary, legal practitioners, litigants, witnesses, court staff and the general public to ensure the effective and efficient management of court and chambers matters.
- Associates are employed by the Courts Administration Authority (CAA) and report to the Principal Registrar, Higher Courts, through the Executive Officer to the Chief Justice.
Applications are made direct to the chambers of the Supreme Court Justice via email and if successful, appointments are generally for a one-year contract.
Associates may complete their Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (if not already obtained) while employed as an Associate.
Associates must not engage in any other employment or practice in any profession, whether for remuneration or not, without the permission of the Principal Registrar.
A Bachelor of Laws degree is required to become a Judge’s Associate. The following levels apply:
- For appointment at the JUA1 level – un-admitted practitioner;
- For appointment at the JUA2 level – admitted to practise in the Supreme Court of South Australia (i.e. successful completion of a Graduate Diploma or Certificate in Legal Practice);
- For appointment at the JUA3 level – A minimum of one year’s practising experience as a legal practitioner after being admitted to practise in the State of South Australia. One year’s practising experience as a legal practitioner may include:
- a) time spent employed as a legal practitioner at a law firm, or government department (e.g. the Crown or the DPP); or
- b) time spent working as an associate after the associate has been admitted; or
- c) a combination of (a) and (b)
Time spent employed as a legal practitioner will only count toward the one year’s practising experience where the person held a valid practising certificate in the State of South Australia. Evidence of practising experience must be provided, by way of a copy of the practising certificate together with a letter from the previous employer confirming the duration of your employment. One year’s practising experience as a legal practitioner may not include time spent as a clerk at a law firm, government department or chambers.
For information on admission to the Supreme Court of South Australia please view the Law Society website.
Chambers email information can be found under Our Judiciary
Applications must include:
- covering letter and resume
- qualifications and/or academic transcript (including where studies are ongoing); and
- the contact details of two referees
Upon admission, a copy of the practising certificate must be provided. Appointment is subject to a National Police Certificate that the CAA finds satisfactory.
For further information please contact the Executive Officer to the Chief Justice
