At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide leadership and strategic guidance to ensure effective delivery of legal aid services.
- Company: Scottish Legal Aid Board, committed to supporting those in need of legal assistance.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, reimbursement for expenses, and flexible time commitment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community by shaping legal aid policies and practices.
- Qualifications: Legal expertise from Faculty of Advocates or Law Society, plus diverse perspectives from non-legal members.
- Other info: Opportunity for impactful involvement over a 3 to 5-year term.
The Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) was set up in 1987 to manage legal aid in Scotland and is a non-departmental public body responsible to the Scottish Government. Legal aid supports people who would otherwise not be able to afford it, to get help for their legal problems. The role of the Board is to provide leadership, direction, support and guidance to ensure SLAB delivers and is committed to delivering its functions effectively, efficiently and in line with the general aims, policies and priorities of the Scottish Ministers. The Board is also expected to provide creative contribution and constructive challenge on all matters whether financial, risk or strategic in nature.
To ensure the Board has the benefit of appropriate specialist knowledge, professional perspectives and technical insights to contribute to its role of overseeing SLAB's performance and strategic development, the Legal Aid (Scotland) Act requires that membership includes:
- two members of the Faculty of Advocates,
- at least two members of the Law Society of Scotland,
- at least one person having experience of the procedure and practice of the courts. This experience need not be current and can have been attained in a variety of ways such as a Sheriff, in-court adviser, a McKenzie friend or someone who has worked or researched within a court setting.
- Non-legal members from a range of communities with backgrounds in business, the third sector and public service to give the Board a wide and balanced variety of knowledge, skills and experience.
In this round we are looking for a legal member from the Faculty of Advocates, a legal member from the Law Society of Scotland, one member with court experience and two non-legal members.
Remuneration and time commitment: £249.00 per day. Reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed. The role is non-pensionable. 3.5 days per month (to a maximum of 42 days per year which includes reading time).
Term of appointment: The appointment will be for a period between 3 and 5 years.
Responsibilities: Public Appointees are responsible for:
- ensuring that the public body delivers its functions in accordance with Scottish Ministers' policies and priorities,
- providing strategic leadership,
- ensuring financial stewardship,
- holding the Chief Executive and senior management team to account.
Appointments of a Legal Member in Scotland employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Appointments of a Legal Member in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with SLAB or similar organisations. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on SLAB's mission and recent developments. Show us that you’re not just familiar with the role but also genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’ve streamlined everything to make it easier for you to showcase your skills and experiences directly to the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Appointments of a Legal Member in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the values and mission of SLAB. Show us that you get what they’re about!
Be Clear and Concise: We love a good story, but keep it relevant! Make sure your application is straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to highlight your key skills and experiences that align with the role.
Showcase Your Experience: This is your chance to shine! Highlight your legal background or any relevant experience in court settings. We want to see how your unique perspective can contribute to SLAB’s mission, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: When you’re ready to submit, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key legal principles and recent developments in legal aid. Being well-versed in the Legal Aid (Scotland) Act and its implications will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience, especially if you've worked in a court setting or have insights from the Faculty of Advocates or Law Society of Scotland. Use specific examples to illustrate how your background aligns with SLAB's mission and objectives.
✨Understand SLAB's Role
Familiarise yourself with SLAB's structure, mission, and strategic objectives. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to their goals and provide constructive challenge and creative contributions during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about SLAB's current challenges or future plans. This not only shows your interest but also demonstrates your strategic thinking and willingness to engage with the Board's responsibilities.