Head of Legal Services

Head of Legal Services

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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West Mercia Police

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a small team providing legal advice and support to the police force.
  • Company: Join West Mercia Police, dedicated to community safety and legal excellence.
  • Benefits: 28 days annual leave, health support, discounts, and flexible working options.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in legal services while protecting your community's reputation.
  • Qualifications: Strong legal background with experience in complex legal matters.
  • Other info: Diverse workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

West Mercia Police are looking for an exceptional Head of Legal Services. The post holder will be responsible for a small Legal Services Team, Insurance Services and the Civil Disclosure Team.

This role requires the post holder to maximise the extent to which communities and the organisation’s reputation are protected by ensuring:

  • The Chief Constable, Chief Officers and members of the wider police workforce receive sound and timely legal advice on a wide range of matters including those that are complex and high profile, including representation in various court proceedings.
  • Legal services costs and expenditure are monitored and minimised.
  • The legal function supports all aspects of corporate and operational activity, responsibilities and reputation.
  • Decision-making in respect of day-to-day activity is legally compliant, policies are sound, and officers and staff are supported in exercising professional judgment.
  • The organisation is protected from challenge wherever possible through lesson learning, officer training and other activities.
  • All mechanisms of legal service delivery are effective and efficient.

We would like you to submit a CV and covering letter detailing how you meet the criteria as detailed on the attached role profile. The closing date for this post is Midnight on Sunday 8th February 2026. Interviews will be held on the 23rd February 2026 and will involve a presentation as part of the selection process.

Why work for us?

  • 28 days Annual leave (increasing to 33 after 5 years’ service) + bank holidays
  • Health and well being support through an Employee Assistance Programme, Occupational Health services and Staff Networks.
  • Police Mutual, affordable private healthcare and other savings.
  • Discounts on Electric Vehicles and Cycle to work scheme.
  • Register for a Blue light card – over 15,000 discounts from large national retailers.

To read more about the added benefits and rewards of working for West Mercia Police, please go to our website. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from everyone. We are also happy to talk flexible working where it is suitable for the role. If you require any support to complete your application or you have any questions please contact the recruitment team on 01905 718444 (press option 1 then 5) or email BOC.staff.recruitment.team@westmercia.police.uk

Head of Legal Services employer: West Mercia Police

West Mercia Police is an outstanding employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees. With a supportive work culture, generous annual leave, and comprehensive health benefits, including access to private healthcare and wellness programmes, we ensure our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Located in a community-focused environment, we offer unique opportunities for meaningful engagement and development within the legal services sector, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in public service.
West Mercia Police

Contact Detail:

West Mercia Police Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Legal Services

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with police services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for that presentation! Since interviews will involve presenting, practice your delivery on complex legal topics. Make sure you can explain your thought process clearly and confidently.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled legal challenges in the past. Use examples that highlight your ability to protect an organisation's reputation.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining West Mercia Police and contributing to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal Services

Legal Expertise
Team Management
Legal Advice
Court Representation
Cost Monitoring
Policy Compliance
Professional Judgment
Training and Development
Efficiency in Service Delivery
Decision-Making
Communication Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Legal Services role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how you meet the criteria outlined in the role profile. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the position.

Showcase Your Legal Expertise: Since this role involves complex legal matters, don’t shy away from showcasing your legal expertise. Mention any high-profile cases or significant legal advice you've provided in the past that demonstrates your capability.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at West Mercia Police

✨Know Your Legal Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the latest legal frameworks and regulations relevant to policing. Be prepared to discuss how these impact decision-making and provide sound advice to senior officers.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head of Legal Services, you'll be leading a team. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully managed a team or project. Highlight your ability to mentor and support others in their professional judgement.

✨Prepare for the Presentation

Since the interview includes a presentation, make sure you know your audience. Tailor your content to demonstrate how you would handle complex legal issues within the police force. Practice delivering it clearly and confidently.

✨Understand the Organisation's Values

Familiarise yourself with West Mercia Police's mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your legal expertise can help uphold their reputation and protect the community, showing that you're aligned with their goals.

Head of Legal Services
West Mercia Police
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