Kaiāwhina participate in client interviews with rōia and assist by taking notes, completing legal research, and helping to look after our clients.
Many kaiāwhina are law students from Victoria University of Wellington. Another portion of our kaiāwhina are law graduates who work in a non-lawyer role but who want to stay involved in the legal world through volunteering. Community Law Wellington and Hutt Valley provides a supportive place to learn and develop your practical legal skills while giving back to your community.
All kaiāwhina need to have completed their compulsory 200-level papers (or equivalent at another law school in New Zealand or overseas):
- LAWS 211 The Law of Contract
- LAWS 212 The Law of Torts
- LAWS 213 Public Law
- LAWS 214 Criminal Law
Kaiwhakamanawa Tautoko
During every legal advice session a member of staff sits on the front desk – this role is called Kaiwhakamanawa. For some of our busier sessions we need a kaiāwhina to come in early and assist the Kaiwhakamanawa with the busiest influx, usually the first half an hour after doors open. This role is called Kaiwhakamanawa Tautoko.
Tasks could include:
- Locating client files
- Handing out interview sheets
- Photocopying client’s documents
- Talking to clients to gather more information for their interview sheets
- Making up boards with interview sheets and notepaper
If this sounds of interest to you, please let us know in the application form.
Applying to volunteer as a kaiāwhina
Please read the position description and complete this application form. You can email v.c@wclc.org.nz with any questions about volunteering.
