At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the administration of Tribunals and make informed decisions on case management.
- Company: Join HM Courts & Tribunals Service, dedicated to delivering justice.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Office-based role in Manchester with occasional travel to other sites.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the justice system while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: A law degree or equivalent experience is desirable; strong decision-making skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
Proud to serve. Proud to keep justice going. Our Legal Officers play a critical role in helping deliver justice. If you’re intent on serving the public by delivering excellent service, and are enthusiastic about working with the judiciary, then this role gives you the opportunity to play a pivotal role within the HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS).
About us
Part of HMCTS, the Tribunals Directorate is responsible for the effective administration of Tribunals in England and Wales and non‑devolved Tribunals in Scotland and Northern Ireland. We work with an independent judiciary across a wide range of jurisdictions to provide a fair, efficient and effective justice system.
Your role
Working within a Regional Hearing Centre (RHC), you will support the effective administration of Tribunals business on a national scale by undertaking a range of complex case work and assessment activity in order to determine how best to advance caseloads and remove any barriers to effective and timely case progression. Working independently with the support of a wider team, you will make informed decisions on how best to process appeals allowing all better access to justice. Under the supervision of a Senior Legal Officer and leadership judiciary, the Legal Officer will make case management decisions as part of their delegated judicial powers. A Legal Officer will liaise with key stakeholders and HMCTS colleagues to ensure the effective administration of justice. This Legal Officer role will be based in the First‑tier Tribunal Immigration and Asylum Chamber (IAC) team in Manchester. We would like to highlight that this is an office‑based position, and the successful candidate will be expected to attend the below office in person: Manchester Tribunal Hearing Centre, 1st Floor Piccadilly Exchange, Piccadilly Plaza, Mosley Street, Manchester, M1 4AH.
About you
Are you able to reflect on an issue and take an informed and impartial approach to your work, making evidence‑based decisions? If you do, this varied and challenging role is for you. A confident communicator and decision maker, you will use your skills and abilities to effectively work and engage with all court users. You’ll understand the importance of impartial decision making, and the need to understand a wide range of information at pace. You’ll have the ability to communicate with multiple levels of stakeholders internal and external to the Tribunal, with varying communication methods and the ability to adapt your communication to your audience.
Experience
A law degree or equivalent technical experience is desirable. The equivalent technical experience has been defined as: "The demonstration of a transferable decision‑making aptitude, working within a set framework or guidance and previous precedents, under a form of supervision".
New recruits
New recruits to the Civil Service joining MoJ are expected to join at the band minimum. Working hours and flexibility Standard full‑time working hours are 37 hours per week. HMCTS welcomes part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing working patterns, where they meet the demands of the role and business needs and are agreed prior to appointment. All applications for part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing working patterns will be considered in accordance with the MoJ’s Flexible Working policy.
Occasional travel
For this post, occasional travel to other sites may be required.
Skilled Worker Visa
From 22 July 2025, the Government increased the salary threshold and skills level for Skilled Worker visas. This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for sponsorship in accordance with the current immigration rules if you are looking to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa for the first time. The Department cannot consider sponsoring you for this role unless you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously since before 22 July 2025. If you have held a Skilled Worker visa continuously, please raise this during your vetting checks and eligibility will be assessed in accordance with the immigration rules and transitional provisions in place. If you are applying for this role and you do not meet the new eligibility criteria for sponsorship (or the transitional provisions), you will need to consider your options for obtaining and/or maintaining your right to work in the United Kingdom. Successful applicants must ensure they have and maintain the legal right to live and work in the Civil Service and in the United Kingdom. The Department will continue to comply with UK Immigration Rules applied in the UK and Civil Service.
17950 - Legal Officer in Manchester employer: Ministry of Justice
At HM Courts & Tribunals Service, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where our Legal Officers can thrive. Located in the vibrant city of Manchester, this role offers not only competitive benefits and flexible working arrangements but also the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the justice system. With a strong emphasis on professional development and collaboration, you will be empowered to make impactful decisions while working alongside dedicated colleagues committed to delivering justice.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 17950 - Legal Officer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Legal Officers and ask them about their experiences. This can give you insider knowledge about the role and help you make valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your decision-making skills. Think of examples where you've made impartial decisions under pressure, as this is key for the Legal Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for justice! During interviews, express your passion for serving the public and how you can contribute to an effective justice system. It’s all about that positive vibe!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace 17950 - Legal Officer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Justice:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for serving the public and delivering justice shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at HMCTS, so don’t hold back on sharing why this role excites you!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate straightforward communication, especially in a legal context. Make sure your application is well-structured and to the point, highlighting your relevant experience and skills without unnecessary fluff.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to customise your application for the Legal Officer role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your background fits the specific requirements of the position. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Legal Officer within HMCTS. Understand the importance of impartial decision-making and how it impacts justice delivery. This will help you articulate your understanding during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations related to case management and stakeholder communication. Think of examples from your past experiences where you made evidence-based decisions or resolved conflicts effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Legal Officer, you'll need to communicate with various stakeholders. Practice explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms. Be ready to demonstrate your ability to adapt your communication style based on your audience.
✨Research HMCTS and Its Values
Dive into the mission and values of HMCTS. Showing that you align with their commitment to delivering excellent service and ensuring access to justice will set you apart. Prepare to discuss how your personal values resonate with theirs.
