Practical Legal Training (PLT)

Job Description

Legal Internship / Practical Legal Training (PLT) Opportunity – Criminal Defence Law

National Criminal Lawyers® | Bella Vista, NSW

Unpaid PLT Placement | Minimum 3–4 Days Per Week | Potential Employment Opportunity

About National Criminal Lawyers®

National Criminal Lawyers® is an established, award-winning criminal defence law firm specialising exclusively in criminal and traffic law.

Founded by Principal Lawyer Michael Moussa (LLM, LLB, GDLP), our firm has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal representation across New South Wales.

With over 25 years of combined criminal law experience, our legal team regularly appears in the Local, District and Supreme Courts of New South Wales, representing clients in a broad range of matters, including serious criminal offences, drug offences, sexual offences, domestic violence matters, bail applications, defended hearings and complex criminal litigation.

Our firm prides itself on its strong advocacy, meticulous preparation, commitment to clients and results-driven approach to criminal defence.

We are currently seeking dedicated, motivated and enthusiastic Practical Legal Training (PLT) students to join our team at our Bella Vista head office.

About the Opportunity

This placement offers aspiring legal practitioners an opportunity to gain practical exposure to the daily operations of a busy criminal defence practice.

Successful applicants may have the opportunity to:

  • Assist solicitors with the preparation and management of criminal matters.

  • Conduct legal research into criminal legislation, case law and procedural issues.

  • Assist with drafting legal correspondence, representations, submissions and court documents.

  • Review briefs of evidence, police fact sheets and other prosecution material.

  • Assist with preparing matters for defended hearings, sentencing proceedings and trials.

  • Gain exposure to court procedures, client conferences and criminal litigation.

  • Attend court with solicitors where appropriate and subject to operational requirements.

  • Develop practical legal skills under the guidance and supervision of experienced criminal defence practitioners.

This is an opportunity for students who genuinely wish to understand the realities of criminal defence practice and develop the skills required to become competent legal practitioners.

About You

We are particularly interested in applicants who demonstrate:

  • A genuine interest in criminal law and criminal litigation.

  • A strong work ethic, reliability and a willingness to learn.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong attention to detail and organisational abilities.

  • Professionalism, initiative and the ability to follow instructions.

  • An understanding of the importance of confidentiality and professional obligations.

  • A willingness to take responsibility for assigned tasks and contribute positively to the team.

Above all, we are seeking individuals who are committed, dependable and serious about developing their legal careers.

Placement Requirements

Applicants must be able to commit to the following:

  • Availability: Minimum 3–4 full days per week.

  • Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

  • Location: Suite 302, 20B Lexington Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2153.

  • Attendance: In-person attendance at our Bella Vista office is required.

  • Remuneration: This is an unpaid Practical Legal Training placement, subject to applicable PLT and workplace requirements.

Due to the nature of our practice, applicants must be prepared to maintain consistent attendance, demonstrate punctuality and approach their placement with professionalism.

Future Employment Opportunities

While this placement does not guarantee employment upon completion, exceptional candidates may be considered for future paid employment opportunities within National Criminal Lawyers®, subject to business requirements and available positions.

We view this placement as an opportunity to identify individuals who demonstrate the aptitude, commitment and professional qualities required to succeed in criminal defence practice.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in law, particularly criminal defence.

Applicants do not need to be currently undertaking Practical Legal Training (PLT) to be considered.

We encourage applications from:

  • Law graduates seeking practical experience in criminal litigation.

  • Students currently undertaking or preparing to commence their PLT.

  • Current university law students who can meet our attendance requirements.

  • Other individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment, aptitude, professionalism and a genuine interest in the legal profession.

While legal qualifications and academic achievements will be considered, we place significant emphasis on an applicant's attitude, reliability, initiative, willingness to learn and long-term potential.

We are looking for individuals who are prepared to work hard, take direction, demonstrate initiative and become valuable members of our team.

Applicants must be available to attend our Bella Vista office for a minimum of 3–4 days per week, between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm.

This opportunity may provide a pathway to future paid employment for exceptional candidates. However, employment is not guaranteed.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit:

  1. A current curriculum vitae.

  2. A brief cover letter outlining their interest in criminal law and why they wish to undertake their PLT placement with National Criminal Lawyers®.

  3. Confirmation of their availability, including the days they can attend our Bella Vista office.

  4. Details of their PLT provider and anticipated commencement date.

Applications: info@nationalcriminallawyers.com.au

Website: www.nationalcriminallawyers.com.au

Firm or Organisation Name

National Criminal Lawyers®

Contact Name

Michael Moussa

Email Address

mm@nationalcriminallawyers.com.au

Telephone

0415179794

Job Level

Any level

Sector

Legal services

Country

Australia

State

New South Wales

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