Browse Employment Lawyer jobs

Within the umbrella of employment law you'll find harassment, discrimination law, bullying in the workplace, codes of conduct and contractual issues. For example, someone may have acted in an inappropriate manner online that violated their company's social media policy. The employment lawyer then works to uncover if they've actually done something wrong and what the consequences are that would flow from that. Employment lawyers also work for professional sports people charged with breaches of contracts.
As Australians are spending more time behind their desks than any other generation, the need for employment lawyers is consistently growing. Within the industry there are solicitors, barristers and legal researchers. Even if you are not considering a degree in law, a background in workplace relations or human resources can set you up for a position in the industry, perhaps as a researcher or advisor who plays a preventive role, addressing employment issues initially. This is a common path for commerce graduates who have studied management or industrial relations.

Responsibilities & Skills

Employment Lawyers undertake research and provide legal advice to their clients, before representing them in negotiations or court proceedings if necessary. They research the past cases, laws and precedents that are relevant to their case so that they can present the strongest possible case for their client and add credibility and weight to their arguments. They may also compose legal documents like contracts or agreements on behalf of their clients. They work mostly on specialist, employment matters in an advisory capacity.

Strong intellectual ability

Stamina, energy and resilience

The ability to respond to stress in a productive way

A sense of fairness and integrity

Advanced communication, negotiation and persuasion skills

Required Qualifications

• Diploma of Legal Practice
• Handbook / Bachelor of Laws
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies

Useful Links

• Australian Corporate Lawyers Association
• Australian Law Students' Association
• Financial, Administrative & Professional Services Training Council