At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Special Advocates in high-profile legal cases involving national security and international relations.
- Company: Join the Government Legal Department, the largest provider of legal services across government.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, civil service pension, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth in a dynamic legal landscape.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical legal issues while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Sound understanding of public law and experience in litigation work preferred.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
The Government Legal Department (GLD) is the largest provider of legal services across government, working with all the main Whitehall departments. From energy to security, from roads to rivers, health to human rights, our work touches on most aspects of public life. From developing and drafting legislation to helping to secure economic and trade relationships, providing legal advice on policies to ensuring value from contracts, our work is stimulating and varied.
Litigation is core to the purpose, vision and strategic outcomes of the GLD. Lawyers cover a full range of judicial review challenges: immigration, planning and national security. It comprises four divisions, the Covid Inquiry Division, the Defence and Security Division, the Home Office and Immigration Division and the Justice and Development division. The Special Advocates’ Support Office ('SASO') is a unique team based in the Justice and Development Division of the Government Legal Department ('GLD').
Your role
Working in SASO, you’ll support Special Advocates, who are security-cleared lawyers with a constitutionally critical role to protect the rights of excluded parties in cases featuring Closed Material Procedure ('CMP'). You’ll work on important, sensitive and high-profile cases. Issues of national security and international relations will be at the heart of the litigation you handle. Our support covers proceedings before the High Court of England & Wales, the High Court of Northern Ireland, the Special Immigration Appeals Commission, the Parole Board, the Employment Tribunal and the Security Vetting Appeals Panel as well as in other courts, tribunals and panels across the different jurisdictions of the UK.
Supporting Special Advocates involves a range of tasks. You will correspond with the excluded party or their Open Representatives, courts and Information Owners. Alongside this, you’ll collate open papers and prepare legal materials for the proceedings in Open or Closed. You’ll attend conferences and court hearings and will arrange meetings for Special Advocates to discuss matters relevant to their work. This role requires the successful candidate to hold DV+ Enhanced Clearance.
About you
We’re looking for someone with a sound understanding of public law. You’re experienced at – or have an aptitude for – litigation work. It would be excellent to see an ability to adapt to casework quickly in a variety of practice areas and/or jurisdictions. It’s key that you’re able to think strategically and creatively. You can see legal issues in their wider context and advise accordingly. Plus, you can conduct sound analysis and use secure legal research to produce timely and fit-for-purpose advice. You’re an effective communicator, both in writing and orally. It would be advantageous if you have existing knowledge of Closed Material Procedure.
Benefits
GLD encourages its people to develop their skills in a nurturing environment. Other benefits include access to a valuable civil service pension and flexible working arrangements. Our vision is to be an outstanding legal organisation and a brilliant place to work where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. This is an exciting time for GLD, with cutting edge legal work on global issues and a transformation agenda which is ensuring the Department exemplifies the Modern Civil Service.
Closing date for applications: Noon 2nd September
G7 Lawyer SASO DV in London employer: Government Legal Department (GLD)
The Government Legal Department (GLD) is an exceptional employer that prioritises professional development and knowledge sharing, making it an ideal place for experienced litigation lawyers. With a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative work culture in Bristol, GLD offers flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training opportunities, and the chance to contribute to impactful government legal services. Join us to be part of a transformative agenda that values your expertise and supports your career growth.
Contact Details:
Government Legal Department (GLD) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land G7 Lawyer SASO DV in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Government Legal Department (GLD), will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace G7 Lawyer SASO DV in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Government Legal Department (GLD), make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Government Legal Department (GLD) and the specific role of G7 Lawyer SASO DV. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Government Legal Department (GLD)’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Legal Department (GLD)
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Government Legal Department (GLD).
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Government Legal Department (GLD).
