Senior Associate - Disputes and Advisory

About the role

Carroll Lawyers, a specialist disputes and advisory firm covering employment law, regulatory investigations, commercial disputes, reputation protection, defamation and international arbitration, is hiring a Senior Associate in Greater Sydney. The role is full-time and involves managing matters from inception to resolution, working directly with clients, developing litigation and negotiation strategies, drafting court documents and submissions, and undertaking advocacy in courts and tribunals.

Key responsibilities

• Run matters from initial instruction through to resolution, keeping both immediate issues and the endgame in view.
• Develop and execute litigation, regulatory and commercial strategies, anticipating the other side's likely moves.
• Draft advice, pleadings, submissions, correspondence and settlement documents that are precise and persuasive.
• Conduct negotiations and dispute resolution processes, and prepare for and appear at hearings, mediations and conferences.
• Identify legal and commercial risks, explain the options and help clients make informed decisions.
• Build strong client relationships through clear communication and reliable follow-through.
• Supervise and mentor junior lawyers and support staff, and contribute ideas to develop the firm's practice.

Required profile

• Approximately 3-5 years' post-admission experience; comfortable taking responsibility and developing as a strategist, advocate and adviser.
• Substantial experience in litigation, dispute resolution and legal advisory work.
• Ability to manage matters independently and judge what is legally possible versus what is commercially sensible.
• Experience appearing in courts or tribunals and in mediations or regulatory processes.
• Willingness to mentor juniors, share knowledge and develop client relationships.
• International arbitration experience, particularly under ICC, LCIA or DIAC rules, is highly regarded.

Required skills

• Strong drafting and written advocacy skills with attention to detail.
• Confidence dealing with clients and explaining complex issues clearly.
• Organisational discipline to manage competing matters, deadlines and priorities.

What we offer

• Varied practice with significant disputes and strategic matters, close collaboration with the Principal and meaningful client contact.
• Flexible working arrangements, including the option to work remotely for a substantial part of the week.
• A relaxed but serious workplace, recognition for initiative and judgment, and the chance to work on matters beyond routine application of the law.