Investigator, Trust Accounts

Are you looking for a rewarding, flexible work environment with excellent employment conditions? Then consider a career as a Trust Investigator with the Law Society of NSW.

About us

The Law Society of New South Wales works with and for the NSW legal profession. We're not all lawyers, but we work together to support the legal profession and ensure a just society for all.

We are the largest and most influential legal membership association in Australia and our role is to act as co-regulator of the legal profession, ensuring solicitors meet the highest ethical and professional standards, and to serve as the representative voice of the legal profession.

About the team

The Trust Accounts Department is a multi-disciplinary team that is part of the Professional Standards Department of the Law Society of NSW. 

Our team objective is to ascertain whether a law practice has complied with, or is complying with the trust requirements of part 4 of the Legal Profession Uniform Law (LPUL) and to detect and prevent fraud or defalcation.

About the role

Reporting to the Team Leader, the Trust Investigator leads investigations into the affairs of law practices and legal practitioners in accordance with the requirements under the Uniform Law. You will deliver a professional, high-level investigative service and produce reports capable of withstanding tribunal scrutiny, and execute a range of targeted regulatory activities across NSW.

What you'll be doing

• Planning, conducting, leading and reporting on a caseload of complex investigations into suspected breaches of the Uniform Law.
• Identifying and gathering evidence in accordance with evidentiary practice and legislated requirements.
• Conducting research and analysis to identify trends and issues, to inform recommendations on compliance strategies, policies and operational processes.
• Representing the Law Society of NSW and if necessary, give evidence at hearings of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
• Engaging with high level stakeholders including members of the legal profession, audit and other professionals to develop effective working relationships and manage complex investigations.
• Maintain the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate continuing high level and contemporary performance by actively participating in professional development opportunities and providing mentoring.
• Model the professional and ethical behaviour and act in accordance with the Law Society’s code of conduct.
• Interstate and remote area travel may be required, including travel and overnight stays.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in commerce, accounting or business.
• Current membership with Chartered Accounts ANZ and/or CPA Australia.
• Demonstrated knowledge of interpreting financial accounting practices and procedures, including accounting systems, auditing standards, accounting standards including APES 215 Forensic Accounting Services.
• Strong problem solving and financial analytical skills, preferably in an investigative or law enforcement environment.
• Working knowledge of the law and the rules of evidence is highly desirable.
• Well-developed written and verbal skills to communicate effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, occupation, and seniority both internal and external to the Law Society.
• Current drivers’ licence.
• Demonstrated ability to work alone and be self-reliant.
• Lead strategically – Think critically and act on the broader purpose into the broader context.
• Make insightful decisions – Make considered, ethical and courageous decisions based on insight into the broader context.
• Build enduring relationships – Build and sustain relationships to enable the collaborative delivery of customer focused outcomes.
• Drive accountability and outcomes – Demonstrate accountability for the execution and quality of results through professionalism, persistence, and transparency.
• Demonstrate sound governance – Maintain a high standard of practice through governance and risk management.
• Demonstrate ability to be adaptive and accepting of new ideas, and a willingness to approach new challenges.
• Demonstrate willingness and determination to set clear goals.
• Behave in an honest and trustworthy manner, treat others fairly and be open about your own misjudgments and any conflicts of interest which may be present.

To apply

The Law Society of New South Wales is committed to building and maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace, appointing the best person for the role and supporting diversity. 

Applications should contain a CV and cover letter that outlines your key experience and motivations for this role.