Principal Legal Officer – Northern Ireland Civil Service
Location: Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast
Job Type: Temporary | Full-Time
Sector: Public Sector & Government | Legal
Salary: Up to £28.69 per hour
Start Date: March 2025
Why Apply?
* Work at the heart of the Northern Ireland judiciary, providing expert legal support
* Gain exposure to High Court and Court of Appeal proceedings
* Play a key role in the implementation of judicial reforms
* Competitive hourly rate
* Opportunity to shape legal policy and judicial decision-making
* Enhance your expertise in criminal law and judicial advisory work
The Opportunity
Staffline Recruitment Ireland is recruiting a Principal Legal Officer to join the Northern Ireland Civil Service – Legal Unit, Office of the Lady Chief Justice.
This high-profile role offers an exceptional opportunity for an experienced legal professional to provide expert legal advice and support on complex judicial matters, including high-level criminal cases and policy reforms.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide legal advice and support to the LCJO Reform Team in relation to the implementation of the Gillen Review of Sexual Offences.
* Advise and support the senior judiciary on cases before the High Court and Court of Appeal, including applications for leave to appeal in criminal cases.
* Assist the Legal Secretary to the Lady Chief Justice with advisory work and speech writing.
* Provide ad hoc legal advice to the judiciary and LCJO colleagues as required.
* Support the Legal Adviser & Secretariat functions within the Legal Unit.
* Review and clear complex judgments for publication.
Essential Criteria
* Qualified Solicitor or Barrister, entitled to practise in Northern Ireland.
* At least five years’ post-qualification experience.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience in the practice of criminal law.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your CV via the link provided or contact:
Hannah Fitzsimons – Hannah.Fitzsimons@stafflinerecruit.com
Applicants must meet the essential criteria to be considered. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
Successful candidates may be required to apply for an Access NI Certificate (£16-£32).