Ministry of Justice UK
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Job Description: Trainee Legal Adviser
About the Role
The role of the legal adviser is vital to the smooth running of HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) and is a highly rewarding position within our organisation. You’ll be surrounded by learning opportunities every day, so if you have a passion for law, this could be the right role for you.
About Us
Our work at HMCTS is vitally important to the smooth running of a fair, accessible and efficient justice system, as we are responsible for the administration of criminal, civil and family courts and tribunals in England and Wales. Right now, we’re looking for trainee legal advisers to join our exceptional legal team and develop the skills to provide magistrates with advice on points of law, practice and procedure, and assist with the formulation and drafting of the reasons behind their judgments.
Important
It is essential in understanding the unique nature of this role that prospective applicants visit a Magistrates’ Court to observe court proceedings before the interview stage of the process- if successful in reaching that stage. Candidates are encouraged to plan ahead because the time period between confirmation and date of interview may be limited and interviews may not proceed if an observation has not been made. The observation provides valuable insight into the duties of a Trainee Legal Adviser and offers a practical understanding of the courtroom environment, as well as the various roles and responsibilities involved. Those who have undertaken this experience often report increased confidence and motivation to excel in the role.
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About You
To be eligible to apply for this post, you must have passed the academic stage of qualification to become a solicitor or Barrister of the Senior Courts of England and Wales or a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) or CILEX Lawyer. Please refer to the entry requirement section for more information.
You’re an excellent communicator with the ability to inspire confidence in everyone you work with and the self-assurance to speak in court. You’re enthusiastic about the responsibility that comes with being on the front line of the justice system. And now you're ready to take your career to the next level and make a positive difference to society and the communities we live in.
Responsibilities
- Learn new legal skills as you develop your career
- Work as the qualified, professional face of the courts
- Apply all your skills as you increase your knowledge of the law
- Enjoy a healthy work/life balance with our range of benefits
Entry Requirements
To be eligible to apply for this post, you must have passed the academic stage of qualification to become a solicitor or Barrister of the Senior Courts of England and Wales or a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) or CILEX Lawyer by virtue of:


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- Having passed the necessary examinations
- Having been granted an exemption in relation to the necessary examinations by the appropriate examining body
- Any combination of the two
Application Process
- Behaviour question: Developing self and others (250 words)
- 500-word Statement of Suitability
- Anonymised CV
- Training HMCTS delivers a bespoke training programme for trainee legal advisers to develop the skills, and knowledge for the legal adviser role.
Locations and Number of Vacancies
There are 10 Crime jurisdiction roles available across the North East.
- South Tyneside Magistrates Court (NE33) 3 roles
- Newcastle Upon Tyne Magistrates Court (NE1) 2 roles
- Newton Aycliffe Magistrates (DL5) 1 role
- Hull and Holderness Magistrates Court (HU1) 1 role
- Sheffield Magistrates Court (S3) 1 role
- York Magistrates Court (YO1) 1 role
- Bradford Magistrates Court (BD1) or Leeds Magistrates Court (LS1) 1 role
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Generous holiday entitlement
- Civil Service pension
- Training opportunities
- Flexible working schemes
- Paid maternity and paternity leave
- Childcare benefits
Contact Information
If you require any assistance please call 0345 241 5359 (Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm) or email HQlegal@justice.gov.uk
Please quote the job reference: 22455
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