Family Lawyer - 2 years+ PQE

Arcwell Legal is a new and growing specialist family law practice based in Christchurch. We provide clear, practical legal advice to people navigating significant life changes and approach our work with professionalism, care, and sound judgment.

We are seeking a family lawyer to join our practice in a full-time role.

This position would suit a lawyer with at least 2 years’ post-qualification experience who has a genuine interest in family law and wants to build a career in this area. While previous family law or litigation experience is preferred, attitude, emotional intelligence, and a strong desire to learn are equally important.

You will work closely with experienced family lawyers and have the opportunity to develop strong advocacy and advisory skills while working on meaningful and often complex matters.

About the Role

You will work closely with senior lawyers and progressively take responsibility for your own matters as your experience develops.

Your work will include:

• Assisting with and progressing family law matters

• Drafting legal correspondence, agreements, and court documents

• Supporting matters through negotiation, mediation, and Family Court proceedings

• Legal research and analysis

• Working directly with clients and providing clear, practical advice

• Managing files and maintaining accurate records

• Contributing to a collaborative and professional team environment

This role provides the opportunity to gain meaningful client exposure and hands-on experience.

Our Work

Arcwell Legal specialises in family and relationship law. Our work includes advising and representing clients in matters such as:

• Relationship property and separation matters

• Contracting Out Agreements and independent legal advice

• Care of children and parenting arrangements

• Guardianship disputes

• Family violence matters

• Applications under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act (PPPR)

• Estate and inheritance disputes, including claims under the Family Protection Act and Testamentary Promise Act

• Family Court proceedings and litigation

• Negotiation and mediation

About You

You will be a lawyer who is genuinely interested in family law and motivated to develop your expertise in this area.

Ideally you will have:

• At least 2 years’ post-qualification legal experience

• Experience in family law or litigation

• Strong written communication and drafting skills

• Sound judgment and attention to detail

• Emotional intelligence and the ability to work with clients experiencing stressful and highly emotional circumstances

• A willingness to learn and develop your advocacy and advisory skills

• The ability to work both independently and as part of a small team

• Familiarity with LEAP practice management software (preferred but not essential)

What We Offer

• The opportunity to join a growing specialist family law practice

• Meaningful client work

• Direct mentoring from experienced family lawyers

• A supportive and professional working environment

• The opportunity to develop strong advocacy and advisory skills quickly

• The chance to be part of a practice developing its systems and culture from the ground up

Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Apply

Please submit your CV and a short cover letter via Seek or email:

[email protected]