At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Enforcement Team to manage criminal cases and provide legal advice.
- Company: DFTO, a pioneering organisation in the rail industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the rail industry while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with experience in criminal litigation.
The predicted salary is between 73368 - 73368 £ per year.
DFTO is setting up a new Enforcement Team, an industry first, responsible for all prosecution activity across the DFTO Group. As DFTO’s Enforcement Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in delivering enforcement strategy and policy, and supporting leadership with confident, informed decision‑making.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and manage criminal cases (fraud, theft, fare evasion, public order offences) ensuring thorough evidence review and accurate documentation.
- Represent DFTO and TOCs in court proceedings relating to Railway Offences, providing clear, persuasive advocacy and adhering to procedural requirements.
- Provide timely legal advice to leadership groups, translating complex legal issues into practical guidance.
- Determine whether cases should be prosecuted or resolved by settlement and draft related correspondence.
- Maintain legal competency by staying up to date with legislation relevant to the rail industry.
- Liaise with industry stakeholders, law enforcement and external counsel on investigations and prosecutions.
- Collaborate with case managers and other legal professionals on continuous improvement initiatives.
- Prepare and draft discussion papers for the functional leadership team and broader business areas.
- Report regularly on work in progress to the General Counsel (Enforcement) and Senior Legal Counsel (Enforcement).
- Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures for criminal enforcement.
Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Technical Qualifications
- Qualified Solicitor or Barrister authorized to conduct litigation, admitted to practice in England & Wales, with proven experience in a reputable firm, chambers, or in‑house organisation.
- Experience in criminal litigation, including case preparation and advocacy.
- Proven ability to manage a varied caseload, including complex matters such as fraud, theft, fare evasion, and public order offences.
- Strong legal analytical skills and ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, practical advice.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of influencing and building relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritise competing demands and deliver high‑quality outcomes under pressure.
- Collaborative team player with a professional and proactive approach to problem solving.
- Ability to research effectively using platforms such as PLC/Lexis Nexis or other trusted sources.
- Background in rail, other transport, or regulated industries desirable but not essential.
Vacancy Details
- Duration: Permanent
- Location: Hybrid/London Waterloo/Leeds
- Salary: up to £73,368
- Closing date: 17th June 2026
DFTO Benefits
- Annual leave: Starting at 25 days, increasing by one day per year of service within the first five years, up to a maximum of 30 days.
- DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution.
- Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry.
If you have any questions or require any reasonable adjustments, please contact.
Legal Counsel (Enforcement Team) in Leeds employer: DfT Operator
DFTO is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to be part of an industry-first Enforcement Team in the heart of London or Leeds. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide extensive benefits including generous annual leave and a robust pension scheme, alongside a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous learning and networking within the rail industry. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your legal career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel (Enforcement Team) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those with experience in criminal litigation. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your advocacy skills. Be ready to discuss how you’d handle specific cases related to fraud or public order offences. Show us you can translate complex legal issues into practical advice!
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest legislation affecting the rail industry. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also help you demonstrate your commitment to the role and the sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel (Enforcement Team) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Counsel role. Highlight your experience in criminal litigation and any relevant cases you've managed. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Enforcement Team. Share specific examples of your advocacy work and how you've translated complex legal issues into practical advice. This is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key, ensure your application reflects your ability to influence and build relationships. Use clear and persuasive language throughout your documents to demonstrate this skill.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at DfT Operator
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legislation relevant to the rail industry. Being able to discuss recent changes or landmark cases will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Prepare for Case Scenarios
Think about how you would handle specific criminal cases like fraud or fare evasion. Be ready to discuss your approach to case preparation and advocacy, as well as how you would translate complex legal issues into practical advice for leadership.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams or external parties in the past, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to influence and build relationships, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Consider doing mock interviews or presenting your ideas to a friend to refine your verbal and written communication skills.
