Senior Associate

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s Litigation and Regulatory practice is expanding, and we are seeking a talented Senior Associate to join our growing Melbourne team. You will become part of one of the largest and most internationally connected Litigation and Regulatory practices in the world, with dedicated lawyers working across major global jurisdictions.

This is an exceptional opportunity to work directly with Kieran O’Brien, our Global Co‑Chair for Class Actions and Mass Torts and a recognised leader in the field.

Kieran leads a dynamic, high-profile practice handling some of the most complex class action, product liability and mass tort matters globally. You will gain unparalleled exposure to strategic, large-scale litigation and cutting-edge matters.

You’ll work across a diverse range of matters, including:

  • Complex general liability and casualty litigation
  • Product liability disputes
  • High-profile class actions
  • Regulatory investigations across key sectors such as life sciences, manufacturing, insurance, sport, and food & beverage.

We want a Senior Associate who is technically strong, commercially minded and energised by challenging, high-stakes work.

You will have access to DLA Piper’s Career Academies, international training programs and award‑winning development forums designed to accelerate your career and equip you for future leadership.

Technical Requirements

  • Minimum 5+ years’ PQE gained in private practice.
  • Strong experience in litigation, regulatory matters, class actions and/or complex disputes
  • Confidence running matters with appropriate autonomy.
  • Ability to mentor and supervise junior lawyers.
  • Excellent drafting, analytical and communication skills
  • Strong client relationship and stakeholder management capability

About You

  • Dynamic, motivated and proactive
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, high-performing environment
  • A genuine team player who contributes respectfully and collaboratively
  • Curious, commercially minded and solutions-focused
  • Someone who takes ownership and is ready for the next step in their career trajectory

What We Offer

  • Genuine long-term career prospects within a global top-tier firm
  • Direct exposure to major litigation and sophisticated client work
  • A collaborative team culture known for its support, energy and excellence.
  • Professional development opportunities across international markets

If you are a motivated and high-performing Senior Associate or a strong Associate ready to step up this is your opportunity to join a practice that thrives on complexity and delivers exceptional results.

Together, we can make business better. Apply now and be part of our future.

We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.

Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.