About us 

Cooper Legal is a medium-sized, specialist litigation and human rights firm, based in Thorndon, Wellington. Our core work is seeking redress for people who suffered abuse as children or vulnerable adults in a range of contexts, primarily State and faith-based care environments.

We do this work through the courts and through pastoral and alternative processes. We were heavily involved with the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, and informed many of the recommendations.

Our firm was awarded best Dispute Resolution and Litigation firm at the New Zealand Law Awards in 2024 and Sonja Cooper was recognised as one of New Zealand's Elite Women Lawyers and Leader of a firm with under 100 staff, also.

As Solicitor/Senior Solicitor, you will meet with survivors of abuse, analyse historical records and advocate for a positive resolution of their grievances to eventually obtain redress for this. You will be working individually and also collaboratively with others within our friendly firm. This role is as challenging as it is rewarding – the work that we do really matters. 
 
About you 
 
Ideally you will have 1-4 years’ PQE, but we will consider a graduate who has completed the Professionals course, who has good grades in tort, family law, civil procedure or similar papers, and who shares our passion for the work we do.

We are also open to applications from more senior lawyers who are interested in joining our team.

Our clients reflect the most damaged and marginalised people in our society. You need to be resilient and equipped to deal with challenging situations and challenging topics. Good people skills and an understanding of working with vulnerable people are essential. 
 
Excellent communication skills are essential, as is the ability to analyse and communicate complex information in a persuasive and coherent manner. 
 
We are looking for individuals with experience and confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds, including Maori, Pacifika and people with disabilities. This includes any experience with tikanga Maori and working in trauma-informed ways. We welcome enquiries from all people, including all ethnicities, LBQTIA+ and disabled communities. 
 
A full driver license is required.

Further information about the firm and the work that we do can be found at www.cooperlegal.co.nz.
 
Please email your CV, academic transcript, and an application letter to david@cooperlegal.co.nz.
 
Closing date: 2 March 2026.