Legal Counsel - Litigation & Dispute Resolution

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to join Auckland Council’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution team.  The team manages complex, high value and often high profile proceedings that have real impact on Auckland and its communities — including major building defect claims, land valuation disputes, debt recovery and other civil proceedings. 

For a litigator who enjoys being close to the work, developing advocacy capability, and assisting with matters end to end, this role offers scale, complexity, and purpose that is rarely available outside private practice.

Day to day you could expect to work on:

• Running civil litigation matters from pre action correspondence through to resolution
• Conducting court based proceedings, including interlocutory steps and hearings
• Assisting on complex disputes such as building defects, valuation and negligence and nuisance claims
• Drafting pleadings, submissions, advice, and formal correspondence
• Engaging directly with internal clients, experts, opposing counsel, and the courts
• Contributing to litigation strategy, risk assessment, and dispute resolution outcomes

Click here to view the Position Description.

He kōrero mōu: About you 

You’re a litigation lawyer who enjoys being on the tools. You’re comfortable managing proceedings, thinking strategically, and operating in a contested environment where judgement and clarity matter. 

You’re keen to deepen your litigation experience in a role that offers real responsibility, varied subject matter, and exposure to significant disputes. Collaborative by nature, you value high quality legal work, clear advocacy, and being part of a supportive, high performing litigation team.

Specifically, we are looking for:

• 3–4 years’ PQE in civil litigation or dispute resolution
• Experience gained in a law firm or advocacy focused litigation environment
• Confidence conducting proceedings and running matters with appropriate supervision
• Strong drafting skills across pleadings, submissions, and written advice
• A proactive, litigation minded approach and genuine interest in advocacy
• A current New Zealand practising certificate

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. The legal work we deliver is interesting, high-profile, varied and fast-paced. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!
Application close date: Friday 27th of March at 11.59pm

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.