Overview
The role of the legal adviser is vital to the smooth running of HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) and is a highly rewarding position within our organisation. If you have a passion for law, are part of a team committed to providing a quality service and want to take your career in a new direction, this could be the right role for you. Our work at HMCTS is vitally important to the smooth running of a fair, accessible and efficient justice system, as we are responsible for the administration of criminal, civil and family courts and tribunals in England and Wales. We're looking for legal advisers to join our exceptional legal team to provide magistrates with advice on points of law, practice and procedure, and assist with the formulation and drafting of the reasons behind their judgments. You'll also be required to exercise a range of authorised judicial functions. Not only will this draw on your sound legal skills, but you'll need to demonstrate judicial independence, integrity and impartiality at all times.
Responsibilities
- Provide clear, impartial legal advice to magistrates and District Judges, ensuring hearings are legally robust and fair.
- Support efficient case progression by applying authorised legal functions in line with the Criminal or Family Procedure Rules.
- Exercise a range of authorised judicial functions.
- Work with colleagues across National Legal Operations to deliver high‑quality court outcomes and a consistent service to court users.
- Advise magistrates on law, practice and procedure, accurately record court decisions on the court system.
- Manage cases both in and outside the courtroom.
- Serve as the professional face of the court, acting with integrity, empathy and respect for all attendees.
- Demonstrate judicial independence, integrity and impartiality at all times.
Qualifications
- Fully qualified to practise in England and Wales as a solicitor, barrister or Fellow of CILEx.
- Substantial practical experience in the criminal or family jurisdiction, gained during training contract, qualifying work experience, pupillage or after full professional qualification.
- Up‑to‑date knowledge of relevant law, practice and procedure.
- Ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to inspire confidence.
- Capability to deal with challenging situations calmly, with a diplomatic and tactful approach.
Training and Development
All Legal Advisers will be required to complete Judicial College training appropriate to their jurisdiction. This typically includes an induction programme followed by structured workplace learning and completion of core modules and learning activities. Candidates are required to demonstrate substantial relevant experience as a minimum requirement; those with near‑minimum experience should expect to complete the full 12‑month Judicial College Legal Adviser training programme, building the knowledge and skills needed to advise across the relevant court types in your jurisdiction and to exercise authorised functions confidently and consistently.
Salary
National salary range: £42,914 – £46,182. London salary range: £49,325 – £53,081. Salary will depend on your base location and pay scale.
Working Pattern
Full‑time, 37 hours per week. This court‑based frontline role involves dual‑site working; a base location will be assigned and you should expect to travel between designated court sites in line with operational requirements. The role is UK‑only and requires a minimum of 60 % on‑site working.
Benefits
Competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, civil service pension, training and development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, paid maternity and paternity leave and a supportive workplace culture with staff networks.
EEO Statement
The Civil Service is committed to attracting, retaining and investing in talent wherever it is found.
Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship may be available for eligible roles, subject to Home Office requirements.
