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- Tasks: Provide legal services and advice to support police investigations and reviews.
- Company: Join the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner, promoting positive change in Scottish policing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working model, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that secures public confidence in policing through independent investigations.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in litigation and legal advice.
- Other info: Permanent position with flexible hours and opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 62111 - 77439 £ per year.
The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) is currently seeking to recruit a Principal Solicitor to join her team who are based in Hamilton. PIRC was established in 2013 and is responsible for carrying out independent investigations into incidents involving the police and independently reviewing the way the police handle complaints from the public. Our aim is to secure public confidence in policing in Scotland by supporting continuous improvement and promoting positive change.
The Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2006, as amended by the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 and the Police (Ethics, Conduct and Scrutiny) (Scotland) Act 2025, sets out the functions of PIRC. These are to review the manner in which policing bodies in Scotland deal with complaints and also to conduct investigations into particular kinds of incidents involving the police. The types of investigation which the PIRC may carry out are specified in the 2006 Act, as amended.
PIRC is a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) sponsored by the Scottish Government. The organisation is led by the Commissioner, Laura Paton, who is supported by the Director of Operations and a team of staff based in Hamilton.
As a Principal Solicitor you will assist the Head of Legal Services in the effective delivery of a broad range of legal services to the Commissioner and PIRC Senior Leadership team (SLT), in particular legal work associated with litigation and advice.
Principal Solicitor in Hamilton employer: Police Investigations And Review Commissioner
Contact Detail:
Police Investigations And Review Commissioner Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Solicitor in Hamilton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might have insights into PIRC or similar organisations. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of police investigations and the relevant legislation. We want you to show off your expertise and passion for public confidence in policing – it’s what PIRC is all about!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Solicitor in Hamilton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with the role of Principal Solicitor. We want to see how you can contribute to PIRC's mission, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant legal expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the role and the work we do at PIRC shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who is not just qualified but also genuinely interested in promoting positive change in policing in Scotland.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details correctly and can process your application efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Police Investigations And Review Commissioner
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
As a Principal Solicitor, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2006 and its amendments. Brush up on relevant legislation and case law, and be prepared to discuss how these apply to the role and the work of PIRC.
✨Showcase Your Investigative Skills
Highlight your experience with independent investigations and handling complaints. Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles that showcase your ability to navigate complex legal issues and provide sound advice to senior leadership.
✨Understand PIRC's Mission
Familiarise yourself with PIRC's goals and recent initiatives. Showing that you understand their mission to secure public confidence in policing will demonstrate your commitment to the role and how you can contribute to positive change within the organisation.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the team dynamics, current challenges PIRC faces, and how the Principal Solicitor role fits into their strategic objectives. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.