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- Tasks: Lead legal and policy work on Northern Ireland's legacy issues and support impactful litigation.
- Company: Join the Committee on the Administration of Justice, a key player in human rights advocacy.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, flexible working, and a supportive office culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in justice and human rights while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Two years' experience in legal research or policy work; law degree required.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 44075 - 46200 £ per year.
The Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ) is an independent non-governmental organisation that seeks to secure the highest standards in the administration of justice in Northern Ireland by ensuring that government complies with its responsibilities in international human rights law.
The post-holder will focus on legal and policy work relating to the legacy of the Northern Ireland conflict, in line with the CAJ strategic objectives of combatting impunity and safeguarding the peace process. The post will focus on legacy interventions along with research and policy work and supporting litigation. The post will also have a focus on contemporary policing and justice issues relating to the present-day application of emergency type laws and policies and respond to inquiries. The post is line managed by the CAJ Senior Solicitor.
You will have at least two years experience conducting high-level research, analysis, policy work, or working as a lawyer or legal advisor in a relevant area. You will hold a primary degree in law, social sciences, or another relevant discipline (or equivalent relevant experience). Postgraduate or professional legal qualifications, including qualification as a solicitor or barrister, are desirable. Experience drafting policy-related submissions, legal arguments, or research, and making representations on or challenging policy decisions, is essential. Experience of lobbying and advocacy activities is desirable.
You will demonstrate excellent knowledge of international and domestic human rights instruments, with a strong understanding of issues relating to justice, policing, accountability, and combating impunity. Experience with inquest proceedings is desirable. Media engagement and public presentation experience are desirable. You will bring excellent written and verbal communication skills, alongside strong organisational, administrative, and interpersonal abilities. You will be able to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating sound judgement, diplomacy, and discretion. You will demonstrate a strong commitment to equality and human rights, aligned with international human rights standards. You will be available for occasional evening and weekend work, as required.
Benefits include:
- 30 days annual leave in addition to statutory holidays
- 8% employer pension contribution
- Flexible Working Policy including flexi/TOIL arrangements
- Hybrid working application
- Training and development budget
- Relaxed and inclusive office environment
A full Job Description and Person Specification are available on our website, along with the application form and equality monitoring form. Applications will only be accepted if submitted using the official application form, and all applicants must complete the equality monitoring form. Any personal information provided in the equality monitoring form will remain confidential and will not be shared with hiring managers. Completed applications should be emailed to . Deadline for the return of completed application forms is Wednesday 25th February at any time. Candidates will be notified if they have been shortlisted by 27th February. Interviews of shortlisted candidates are scheduled for Tuesday 3rd March 2026.
Benefits: Flexitime, Laptop
Senior Legal and Policy Officer in Belfast employer: Committee on the Administration of Justice
Contact Detail:
Committee on the Administration of Justice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal and Policy Officer in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the legal and policy field, especially those connected to human rights. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews – it’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the CAJ and its work on legacy issues. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re passionate about justice and human rights!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to clearly articulate your skills and experiences that relate to the role. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you refine your delivery and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure to fill out the equality monitoring form – it’s important for us to understand our applicants better.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal and Policy Officer in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role, so highlight relevant skills and experiences that match what we're looking for.
Use Clear and Concise Language: When you're putting together your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Make your points clear and easy to understand – we want to get to know you quickly!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates take the time to tailor their applications to us. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the legacy work and human rights focus of the role.
Follow Our Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website using the official application form. We can only accept applications submitted this way, so don’t miss out on the chance to join us by skipping this step!
How to prepare for a job interview at Committee on the Administration of Justice
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of international and domestic human rights instruments. Familiarise yourself with the legacy of the Northern Ireland conflict and how it relates to the role. This will show that you're not just interested in the position, but that you understand the context and challenges involved.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience in high-level research, policy drafting, and advocacy. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated complex legal issues or contributed to significant policy changes. This will help the interviewers see how your background aligns with their needs.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or colleague to refine your delivery and ensure you can effectively convey your ideas during the actual interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment
Be prepared to discuss your commitment to equality and human rights. Think about how your values align with the CAJ's mission and be ready to share your thoughts on current justice and policing issues. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level and show that you're genuinely passionate about the work they do.
