Legal Officer

Job Description

*This is a fixed term, 12 month post*
The Legal Officer will work in the Commissioner’s Advice and Investigations Team, reporting to the Head of Advice and Investigations. You will be responsible for the provision of internal legal advice and the lawful and effective use of the Commissioner’s investigative powers, as well as supporting the delivery of the office’s advice function.In addition, you will be directly responsible for the analysis and management of a body of legal casework on behalf of the Commissioner.

This role is a unique and pivotal within our office. As a key member of staff, we need you to provide legal advice and support in relation to the exercise of the Commissioner’s investigative powers. The role will allow you to lead on the office’s strategic litigation function.

We are looking for individuals with the gravitas and professionalism to build the function and make recommendations for future development. You will have primary responsibility assessment of cases for intervention and other involvement by the Commissioner, drafting submission and legally representing the Commissioner, instructing Counsel, and managing cases.

You will provide legal advice on issues relating to children and young people’s rights and will enable effective response to rights issues raised via our advice function. As a team, we work to our shared values of bravery, independence, leadership, participation and respect so that we can be the fierce champions of rights that children and young people need us to be. 

Essential requirements for this position are as follows:

• A minimum of two years’ satisfactory relevant post-qualification experience as a solicitor, advocate, or barrister.
• Experience in a relevant area of law relating to human rights.
• An understanding of how international human rights law impacts domestically.
• Demonstrable experience and understanding of legal process in Scottish courts and tribunals.
• A proven ability to advocate effectively in the courts as required, to write high-quality legal submissions and instructions.
• A proven track record of planning and prioritising legal case work.
• The capacity to undertake high volumes of work and deliver to strict deadlines. 
• An excellent capacity to develop, manage and maintain effective working relationships internally and externally.

In addition

• A proven track record of working effectively in teams in a multi-disciplinary environment.
• Sound judgement and good decision-making skills.
• Experience in the use of appropriate technology e.g. electronic case management systems and other IT tools and applications commonly used in a modern legal office.
• A track record of creating presentations and drafting policy and legislative advice.
• Effective communication skills.
• Proven experience of excellent report writing and high standard of general written communication skills.
• Commitment to a rights-based approach to work and in particular to the meaningful participation of children and young people.

To find out more about how to apply, please see our website: www.cypcs.org.uk/jobs

CV and covering letter (no more than 2000 words) accepted by email to recruitment@cypcs.org.uk 
Applications are welcomed and must be submitted before 13:00 on Friday 24th June 2022.

In person interviews will take place the week commencing 6th July 2022 at our office.