Senior Legal and Policy Officer (Legacy) in Belfast

Senior Legal and Policy Officer (Legacy) in Belfast

Belfast Full-Time 44075 - 44075 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Go Premium
C

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead legal and policy work on the legacy of the Northern Ireland conflict.
  • 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 shaping policy for the future.
  • Qualifications: Two years' experience in legal research or policy work; law degree preferred.
  • Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic and inclusive environment.

The predicted salary is between 44075 - 44075 £ per year.

About Us: 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 Role:

  • Salary: NJC Scale PO3 starting at Point 33, £44,075 pa
  • Hours: 35 hours per week
  • Term: Three year contract, with a potential extension subject to funding.

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.

The Candidate:

  • 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 and Wellbeing:

  • 30 days annual leave in addition to statutory holidays
  • Flexible Working Policy including flexi/TOIL arrangements hybrid working application
  • Training and development budget
  • Relaxed and inclusive office environment

Application Information: Completed applications should be emailed to info@caj.org.uk. 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.

Senior Legal and Policy Officer (Legacy) in Belfast employer: Committee on the Administration of Justice

The Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ) is an exceptional employer dedicated to promoting human rights and justice in Northern Ireland. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer 30 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive office culture that fosters professional growth through training and development opportunities. Joining CAJ means being part of a meaningful mission to combat impunity and safeguard the peace process, making a real difference in the community.
C

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 (Legacy) 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

Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your best work, including policy submissions and research papers. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this to demonstrate your skills and experience in tackling complex legal issues.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on current affairs! Keep an eye on contemporary policing and justice issues, especially those related to Northern Ireland. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation's mission.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation. Don’t miss out on the chance to make a great impression!

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal and Policy Officer (Legacy) in Belfast

Legal Research
Policy Analysis
Drafting Legal Documents
Advocacy
Knowledge of International Human Rights Law
Understanding of Justice and Policing Issues
Experience with Inquest Proceedings
Media Engagement
Public Presentation Skills
Written Communication Skills
Verbal Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Judgement
Diplomacy

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see how your skills in legal research and policy work can contribute to our mission at CAJ.

Showcase Your Experience: Don’t hold back on detailing your relevant experience! Whether it’s drafting policy submissions or engaging in advocacy, we’re keen to see how you’ve made an impact in your previous roles.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the point while showcasing your excellent communication skills.

Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.

How to prepare for a job interview at Committee on the Administration of Justice

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on international and domestic human rights instruments. Familiarise yourself with the legacy of the Northern Ireland conflict and how it relates to contemporary policing and justice issues. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the context in which the Committee on the Administration of Justice operates.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past work that highlight your experience in high-level research, policy drafting, or legal advising. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully challenged policy decisions or engaged in lobbying activities. This will demonstrate your practical skills and how they align with the role's requirements.

✨Communicate Clearly

Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your public speaking abilities. This will help you stand out as someone who can effectively engage with various stakeholders.

✨Demonstrate Your Commitment

Be prepared to discuss your commitment to equality and human rights. Share any relevant experiences that reflect your dedication to these values. This will resonate well with the organisation's mission and show that you're a good cultural fit for the team.

Senior Legal and Policy Officer (Legacy) in Belfast
Committee on the Administration of Justice
Location: Belfast
Go Premium

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

C
Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>