Principal Legal Officer

Principal Legal Officer – Northern Ireland Civil Service

Location: Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast

Job Type: Temporary | Full-Time

Sector: Public Sector & Government | Legal

Salary: Up to £28.69 per hour

Start Date: March 2025

Why Apply?

• Work at the heart of the Northern Ireland judiciary, providing expert legal support
• Gain exposure to High Court and Court of Appeal proceedings
• Play a key role in the implementation of judicial reforms
• Competitive hourly rate
• Opportunity to shape legal policy and judicial decision-making
• Enhance your expertise in criminal law and judicial advisory work

The Opportunity

Staffline Recruitment Ireland is recruiting a Principal Legal Officer to join the Northern Ireland Civil Service – Legal Unit, Office of the Lady Chief Justice. This high-profile role offers an exceptional opportunity for an experienced legal professional to provide expert legal advice and support on complex judicial matters, including high-level criminal cases and policy reforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support to the LCJO Reform Team in relation to the implementation of the Gillen Review of Sexual Offences.
• Advise and support the senior judiciary on cases before the High Court and Court of Appeal, including applications for leave to appeal in criminal cases.
• Assist the Legal Secretary to the Lady Chief Justice with advisory work and speech writing.
• Provide ad hoc legal advice to the judiciary and LCJO colleagues as required.
• Support the Legal Adviser & Secretariat functions within the Legal Unit.
• Review and clear complex judgments for publication.

Minimum Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister, entitled to practise in Northern Ireland.
• At least five years’ post-qualification experience.
• Experience in the practice of criminal law.

How to Apply

To apply, submit your CV via the link provided or contact:

Applicants must meet the essential criteria to be considered. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.

Successful candidates may be required to apply for an Access NI Certificate (£16-£32).

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Temporary

Job function

Administrative, Legal, and Consulting

Industries

Government Administration, Law Practice, and Legal Services

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