2026 AND 2027 ASSOCIATE POSITION FOR HER HONOUR JUDGE SHEAD SC

Her Honour Judge Shead SC is seeking expressions of interest to fill the role of Associate in 2026 and 2027. Her Honour presides in the criminal jurisdiction of the District Court of New South Wales, the largest trial court in Australia. The role will commence in January 2026 and the position will be for one to two years, depending on suitability, interest and availability.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Candidates who apply for the position should be able to demonstrate the following skills and requirements:

• completion of a degree (by December 2025);
• an interest in criminal law, evidence law and advocacy;
• the ability to maintain absolute confidentiality and discretion;
• excellent attention to detail;
• good interpersonal skills;
• outstanding organisational skills and an ability to cope under pressure;
• superior written and oral communication skills; and
• basic mathematical and technological skills.

The successful applicant will be as comfortable making a cup of tea as they will be drafting complex legal work. The general position description is available at:
https://www.districtcourt.nsw.gov.au/district-court/about-us/careers.html.

The Associate’s role is to provide high-level legal and administrative support. The Associate is responsible for managing her Honour’s Chambers and is the first point of contact for all members of the public and the profession. The role encompasses assisting her Honour with complex legal research, drafting, in-court duties, and general day-to-day administrative tasks.
Her Honour primarily sits in the Sydney Downing Centre but may travel to regional courts.