New Zealand Law Society - Locum Panel

Locum Panel

When you need a break for recreational or health reasons locums provide cover for short term absences. We provide a list of locums who can support the principal in a small or sole practice, or staff who need cover to take leave.

Find a locum

The Locum Panel contains a list of lawyers who can be employed as locums to provide short-term cover when you need it.

Become a locum

Complete the online registration form to register to be listed on the Locum Panel. When the Law Society receives your submission we will:

  • check the information supplied on the form
  • contact the referees you provide for further verification.

If everything is acceptable we will list your details on the Locum Panel.

Agreements between lawyers and locums

The Locum Panel is a referral service designed to help lawyers to find a locum when they need one. The lawyer and the locum are expected to make their own arrangements for remuneration, accommodation, office support, professional indemnity insurance, and so on.

While remuneration rates vary, most lawyers available to work as locums are experienced practitioners. Many locums plan on working less than a full year, with breaks between jobs. For this reason, often locums can expect a remuneration rate that is higher than a permanent employee.

Screening locums

While we provide a list of locums in good faith, the Law Society makes no representations as to the ability of the locums to perform to the requirements of their employer. Locums go through preliminary screening by providing 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 qualified as a trust account supervisor 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.
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