At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on civil claims and manage litigation for Northumbria Police.
- Company: Join Northumbria Police, a leading public sector organisation committed to community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a fantastic pension scheme with up to 16% employer contribution.
- Other info: Agile working options available, plus opportunities for professional development and community volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while advancing your legal career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified solicitor with at least 5 years of experience in litigation and police law.
The predicted salary is between 64959 - 70071 £ per year.
Salary: Band 12, £64,959 – £70,071 per annum (Please note it is Northumbria Police policy to appoint at the beginning of the band)
Location: Agile, Forth Banks Police Station, Newcastle and homeworking
Hours/Contract: 37 hours per week, permanent
What you’ll do
- Provide advice on all aspects of litigation in accordance with relevant legislation, case law and force policy ensuring that the organisational and reputational risk of the Force is minimised.
- Managing and advising on the civil claims (including the Allard claims) made against the Chief Constable in accordance with the delegated authority given by both the PCC and the Chief Constable.
- Making decisions on the Force’s liability for claims and, where appropriate, settling claims and costs (including the Allard claims) up to the limit of the delegated authority.
- Providing representation and advice in relation to inquests involving the Force.
- Monitor the expenditure on civil claims and report on a timely basis to the Chief Constable on any financial issues arising, including the relationship between current expenditure and the stop loss figure under the Force’s insurance policy (£2m).
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years qualification as a solicitor; knowledge of police law; experienced in litigation and managing a litigation team; experience of liaising with insurers.
- Ability to work unsupervised and plan/organise personal work and that of the team.
- Ability to identify key issues in all areas of the legal work and management.
- Ability to analyse data on claims; to be able to manage, supervise and support the team.
- Experience of reporting and presenting to senior leaders within the Force; identifying areas of change.
Terms of appointment
This is a permanent role subject to a six‑month probationary period. Successful candidates will not be able to apply for any other post, advertised internally or externally, during the probation period.
What we offer
- 26 days’ leave (increasing to 30 days for 5 years+ service) plus 8 bank holidays
- NHS Fleet Solutions Car Lease Scheme
- Enhanced maternity, shared parental and adoption leave
- Flexi time – allowing you to fit your working hours around your individual needs
- Flexible working (we are happy to discuss options such as compressed hours)
- Agile working – option to work from home, your team zone, and spaces across the force
- Fantastic market‑leading public sector pension scheme with up to 16% employer contribution
- Corporate travel schemes – local rail, bus services and metro discounts
- Access to private healthcare and eye test vouchers
- Discounts on shopping and eating out thanks to the Blue Light Card and Blue Light Tickets
- Paid sick leave, trained mental health first aiders on‑site, an employee advice service for additional support
- Access to gyms in some stations
- Sports & Social Club – join our thriving sports scene at Team NP and enjoy further exclusive discounts on days out and travel
- Cycle to work scheme
- Opportunity to volunteer in local community
We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Appointments are based on merit alone.
For further information about the role please contact Richard Heron, Head of Legal Services by email at Richard.Heron@northumbria.police.uk.
Senior Lawyer (Civil Claims) in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Northumbria Police
Northumbria Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Senior Lawyers in Civil Claims. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide generous leave entitlements, a market-leading pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative team. Our agile working options and community involvement initiatives further enhance the rewarding experience of working with us in Newcastle.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Lawyer (Civil Claims) in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Lawyer (Civil Claims) in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Northumbria Police, 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 Northumbria Police and the specific role of Senior Lawyer (Civil Claims). 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 Northumbria Police’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria Police
✨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 Northumbria Police.
✨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 Northumbria Police.
