Deputy Pincipal Legal Officer

Deputy Principal Legal Officer

Location: Chichester Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Pay Rate: £24.58 per hour
Salary: £47,304 per annum
Contract: Temporary ongoing
Hours: 37 hours per week

Staffline Recruitment Ireland is currently recruiting a Deputy Principal Legal Officer on behalf of the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS), based in Belfast.

The Role

The Deputy Principal Legal Officer (PLO) provides high-quality legal services to UK Government ministers, departments, agencies, non-departmental public bodies and public officers. The role focuses primarily on litigation matters within the High Court and County Court.

Main Duties

• Litigation Management: Handle complex casework, which may include Hearing Loss and Data Protection proceedings.
• Legal Advice: Provide detailed written and oral legal advice to clients.
• Drafting and Documentation: Draft pleadings, prepare instructions to counsel, and review and comment on legal documents.
• Counsel Engagement: Instruct and liaise with counsel during consultations and hearings.
• Case Preparation: Review large volumes of litigation documentation, gather evidence, and liaise with witnesses and legal representatives.
• Witness Support: Prepare witnesses for civil claims and oral hearings.
• Hearing Preparation: Assist with the preparation of electronic bundles (e-bundles), submissions and follow-up actions before and during hearings.
• Caseload Management: Independently manage and progress an individual caseload.
• Time Recording: Accurately record chargeable time in line with the Crown Solicitor's policies and billing targets.

Qualifications Required

Candidates must be qualified as a barrister or solicitor entitled to practise in Northern Ireland and hold a valid practising certificate.

Essential Criteria

• Experience of working as part of a team to provide sound legal advice and representation to clients in litigation matters.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in group litigation.

Benefits

• Hybrid working available.
• Flexitime arrangements.
• Monday to Friday working pattern.
• Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development.

Additional Information

Applicants must meet the essential criteria to be shortlisted for this role.

Please note that vacancies may be filled quickly. However, your CV may be retained for consideration for future similar opportunities.

Successful candidates may be required to undergo the appropriate security clearance process and must therefore have resided in the UK for at least three years.

How to Apply

If you are interested in and available for this position, please upload your CV via the application link or contact Charlene Quinn for further information.

Email: [email protected]