Locum Solicitor – Actions Against Police and State

We are seeking to recruit a Locum Solicitor of 3 years’ PQE upwards to join our team to cover maternity leave.

The successful candidate will have experience in inquests and civil claims against the state. We would be particularly keen to receive applications from individuals with experience of bringing discrimination claims. We would welcome applications from committed practitioners who are passionate about working with vulnerable clients.

Overview of key responsibilities

Our Actions Against Police & State (AAPS) Team represents a diverse cross-section of claimants in providing the full range of remedies for those who have been wronged by the state. These include complex police complaints, representation at Inquests and Inquiries, civil claims for compensation and other relief against detaining authorities (including police, immigration, prison and mental health authorities) and judicial review claims in a variety of contexts. The areas covered include:

Tort claims including assault & battery, false imprisonment, misfeasance in public office and malicious prosecution
Discrimination claims, i.e. claims under the Equality Act 2010
Human Rights Act claims
Misuse of private information and data protection
Inquests
Inquiries
Judicial review claims

skills/knowledge requirements

Essential qualities for this role are:

Knowledge

a solid understanding of the key principles of law and relevant legal procedures and a desire to excel when using them as a lawyer;
knowledge of and commitment to the professional duties of a solicitor
knowledge of the public funding system and LAA procedures as well as knowledge of private funding and CFA arrangements

Ability

an understanding of, and ability to advise, clients from a wide range of backgrounds both orally and in writing on complex legal issues (including the ability to adapt styles appropriate to the needs of different types of clients);
the ability to draft persuasive representations and letters before claim, statements of case (when appropriate), witness statements and other documents;
the ability to make sound strategic decisions when advising and during litigation to achieve the best results for clients whether in settlements or at trial;
a good understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules
willingness to keep up to date with developments in the law by reading relevant publications and attending appropriate courses and meetings;
ability to research, analyse and evaluate complex fact patterns, legal concepts and related issues;
interest in and ability to develop links with potential referral organisations (as our work is largely dependent on referrals from satisfied clients and organisations);
strong financial management skills in managing clients, cases and internally to develop and sustain their practice
effective, capable advocate with strong, appropriate communication skills – instilling confidence in clients, adaptive and persuasive;
ability to think creatively to accomplish clients objectives
the ability to work as part of a team and attend and contribute to regular departmental meetings;
a positive role model, actively developing junior members of the team, provide guidance and supervision;
the ability to win cases via effective settlements and at trial is important.
to be fully familiar with the CFA regime and insurance issues; to be fully familiar with the cost budgeting regime and proportionality issues; to be fully familiar with funding and costs issues generally post LASPO.

Equal Opportunities and Diversity

While we strive to make an impact through the law, we also strive to make an impact as an employer. We are committed to equal opportunities and the nurture of equality and diversity in our workplace.

How to apply

Please view the role’s job description and person specification in the downloadable files.

If you are interested in applying please complete the recruitment pack. Completed recruitment packs should be emailed to recruitment@bindmans.com, quoting the vacancy reference number.

LEGAL POSITION