The Law Society’s Locum Panel is an online database of lawyers who are available to work as locums. The Panel lists information about lawyers who act as locums. All listed locums are required to certify the validity of information on their qualifications and experience.

What does a locum do?

A locum lawyer works for a short, usually fixed, term. Locums provide cover in situations such as the absence of staff or where the principal in a small or sole practice may need a break for recreational or health reasons.

How do I select a locum?

The Law Society’s Locum list provides contact details and information on the experience of lawyers who are available to be employed as locums. This information shows the following:

• Locations where the locum is available for work;
• Year of admission;
• Whether able to practise on own account;
• Whether qualified trust account supervisor.
• Phone and email contact details.

If you locate a suitable potential locum;

What experience is required from locums listed in the Panel?

The New Zealand Law Society Locum Panel lists details of lawyers who are available to work as legal locums. The Law Society provides the listings in good faith and makes no representations as to the ability of the locums to perform to the requirements of their employer. However, the Law Society performs a preliminary screening function by requiring potential locums to provide the following information:

• Information on date of admission, whether a current practising certificate is held, and areas of expertise;
• Declarations that the locum is entitled to practise on own account
• Whether the locum is TAP/TAS qualified and is prepared to act as locum in a sole practice;
• Information on whether the locum has their own transport, is willing to undertake short-term/emergency locum work, and is willing to work weekends;
• Details of two referees
• A full Curriculum Vitae;
• A declaration that all information provided is complete and correct.

Remuneration and other requirements

• The Law Society Locum Panel is a referral service only, aimed at assisting lawyers who need locums to locate them. The parties are expected to make their own arrangements for remuneration, accommodation, office support, professional indemnity insurance, etc.
• Remuneration rates will obviously vary, but most lawyers available to work as locums in New Zealand are experienced practitioners. Many locums plan on working less than a full year, with breaks between jobs. To be viable, this means a good remuneration rate is expected.

How to be listed on the Locum Panel

If you would like to register for the New Zealand Law Society's Locum Panel, please complete the registration form and email to practisingwell@lawsociety.org.nz. Upon submission the Law Society will check the form with the supplied referees. If everything is acceptable your details will be listed.

Further information and inquiries

Further information can be obtained by emailing practisingwell@lawsociety.org.nz.