Judges Clerk 2026 | Wellington Chief Judge's Chambers | Wellington City
Te Haeata/The opportunity
The Ministry of Justice invites applications for the position of Judge's Clerk to the Principal Youth Court Judge ("Principal Judge"). The Principal Judge holds a national leadership role within the District Court and is responsible for ensuring the orderly and expeditious discharge of the business of the Youth Court. The Principal Judge works closely with the Chief District Court Judge, Principal Family Court Judge, National Executive Judge, Youth Court Judges, government agencies, and community organisations.
The position offers new graduates the opportunity to work closely for up to three years with the Principal Judge, gaining insight into the judicial process and broad exposure to the administration of the District Court of New Zealand generally and the Youth Court in particular.
The Judge's Clerk will:
undertake legal research and writing for the Principal Judge
assist waith projects supporting the effective administration of the Youth Court
keep up to date with changes in the law relevant to the Youth Court, including writing case notes and explanatory memoranda for Youth Court Judges.
support the Principal Judge in her work for the District Court, including the development and implementation of judicial initiatives.
assist the Principal Judge when sitting in court with legal research
undertake secretariat duties including organising and taking minutes for judicial committee meetings
research for and assist with preparation of conferences, papers and speeches
respond to legal and procedural queries, including external queries
contribute to the editing and publishing of a monthly newsletter from the Principal Youth Court Judge to Youth Court Judges
work alongside other Judges' Clerks working in the Chief District Court Judge's Chambers.
The Judge's Clerk will report directly to the Principal Judge.
Ō pūkenga/Skills and experience
The successful applicant will have:
a law degree with excellent academic achievement, particularly in youth justice and criminal law generally. Electives such as criminal procedure, evidence, and Māori legal studies are of benefit. Study in other branches of the humanities would also be an advantage
excellent and accurate written and verbal communication skills
problem-solving skills
qualities such as self-motivation, efficiency and initiative, and the ability to work independently
excellent organisational and time management skills
strong community connections.
Mō mātou/About us
At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
The District Court is the largest court in Australasia. Most New Zealanders who go to court will go through their entire justice process in the District Court. Each year, more than 200 Judges, acting Judges, Community Magistrates and Judicial Justices' of the Peace in 58 courthouses deal with approximately 200,000 criminal, family, youth and civil matters.
For more information please visit us on Home - The District Court of New Zealand
Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working here
We offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be.
See our full range of benefits: here.
With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.
Utu ā-tau/Salary
The starting salary is $68,845 with an opportunity to progress in six-monthly increments to $83,135 pa.
Tono mai/Apply
To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.
The successful applicant will be expected to start early in 2026. All applications will be considered, including from those who expect to complete their studies at the end of 2025.
If you wish to apply for this position please include your University transcript in your application pack and a copy of a recent legal opinion, thesis, essay or memorandum you have completed. This should not exceed 2000 words.
Applications close on Sunday, 2 November; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and may invite successful candidates to interview before the close date.
If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz
