Legal Executive, 2 vacancies

These are permanent full time roles in Auckland (minimum 30 hours per week, Mon - Fri)

About the job

Russell van Hout is an award-winning and highly regard boutique dispute resolution law firm.  We specialise in resolving complex commercial and construction disputes and have received praise for our commitment to excellence and innovation in the area of dispute resolution.

Recognised as one of the top dispute resolution law firms in New Zealand, Russell van Hout has been an award winner of Excellence in Dispute Resolution for the last three consecutive years in the New Zealand Law Awards.  We have also been recognised as one of New Zealand’s fastest growing law firms for the last three consecutive years, including being awarded the fastest growing law firm in New Zealand in 2024.  We are involved in some of New Zealand’s largest court cases, including a class action claim against two of New Zealand’s biggest banks, representing approximately 150,000 plaintiffs in a claim in excess of a billion dollars. 

Our team lives and breathes our values, which are:

• Better Than Yesterday;
• Grit;
• Genuine People; and
• Great Work That Supports A Big Life.

Because we live by our values, we have developed an excellent work culture and achieved some great outcomes for our clients.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Case Management: Assist in managing a diverse portfolio of litigation and dispute resolution cases from inception to resolution, including commercial disputes, contract disputes and construction disputes.
• Legal Research: Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support case strategies, including researching statutes, case law, and legal precedents.
• Document Preparation: Draft and review legal documents such as pleadings, witness briefs, discovery requests and correspondence.
• Client Interaction: Maintain regular communication with clients, providing updates on case progress, discussing case strategies, and addressing client inquiries.
• Court Appearances: Assist in preparing for court appearances, including assembling necessary documentation, preparing witnesses, and coordinating logistics.
• Administrative Support: Provide administrative support to the Senior Team.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate with other team members to ensure comprehensive case preparation and strategy development.
• Compliance: Ensure all actions comply with relevant legal standards, firm policies, and ethical guidelines.

 Qualifications & Experience:

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in a legal role in a law firm.
• Experience to include at least 1 year in a litigation and dispute resolution environment.
• A Law Degree or relevant Diploma (local or international) would be an advantage.
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of litigation processes and legal terminology.
  • Excellent research and analytical skills.
  • Proficiency in legal document drafting and review.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency in legal research tools and software (e.g., LexisNexis, Westlaw).
  • High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Attributes:

·        Professionalism: Demonstrates integrity, ethical behaviour, and a high standard of professional conduct.

·        Problem-Solving: Proactive and solution-oriented approach to addressing legal issues and client needs.

·        Adaptability: Ability to handle multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

 Why Join Us:

Our firm prioritises the professional development and well-being of our team members, fostering a culture of innovation and success.

Join Russell van Hout and be part of a dynamic award-winning legal team committed to achieving excellence in Litigation and Dispute Resolution. Apply now to embark on an exciting career journey with us.

Or alternatively please send your Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae to Karen McMurtry at [email protected].