Police Defence Solicitor / Barrister / Paralegal

THE FIRM Our client is a leading litigation firm with a national network.

THE ROLES To advise the police authorities on a wide range of operational matters, provide litigation advice, undertake advocacy where required.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Specialise in acting on behalf of a police force, their claims handlers and insurers, protecting their interests.
• Manage some pre and litigated claims including but not limited to false imprisonment, malicious prosecution and assault.
• Work as part of a team providing a comprehensive range of legal advice and representation to the Chief Constable to include, depending on experience, civil orders in the Magistrates' Court and the County Court, including Anti Social Behaviour Orders, Sexual Offences Prevention Orders, Proceeds of Crime Act applications and Domestic Violence Protection Orders.
• Demonstrate strong advocacy skills, and have the necessary flexibility to offer support in the handling of civil claims, judicial review, operational advice, and disclosure.
• Assess and respond to requests in line with Force Policy, legislation and common law principles.
• Advising officers and staff in relation to the necessity and lawfulness of disclosure requests received and where appropriate, advising them on the grounds for refusal, along with identifying documentation to be disclosed, including video and audiotapes.
• Assist the BCM and other team members with their cases, client development, client training, networking and potentially public speaking where required.
• Liaise with various parties such as other solicitors, insurers, experts, counsel and clients.
• Control Case Manager diary and action lists.
• Draft various documents such as letters, reports and pleadings.
• Perform billing duties, ensuring bills are paid in a timely manner.
• Satisfy standards of client care in accordance with BCM guidelines and directions.
• Complete Client MI procedures.
• Achieve set financial and chargeable targets.
• Comply with relevant rules, policies and procedures.
• Keep up to date with legal developments.

THE PERSON

• 3PQE+ Experience of defending litigated claims.
• Experience of advising a public body on day to day legal queries.
• Excellent knowledge of the CPR and litigation.
• Knowledge of neighbourhood type policing orders and general operational advice preferable.
• Ability to influence a broad range of people including key decision makers.
• Excellent organisation skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work to strict deadlines and targets.
• Ability to work as part of a team or on own initiative.