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Legal Adviser
Legal Adviser (South Strathclyde Dumfries and Galloway)
Starting Salary from: £44,709 per annum
Permanent, Full-Time
Location: Hamilton Sheriff Court
Ref: REQ00832
Reserve candidates will be identified to be considered for the same or similar posts that may arise in SCTS within reasonable travelling distance of South Strathclyde, Dumfries and Galloway) over the next 12 months
SCTS a great place to work, learn and develop
ABOUT SCTS
SCTS plays a key role in the administration of justice. We fulfil our purpose by providing the people, buildings and services needed to support the judiciary, the courts, devolved tribunals and OPG. Our work focuses on improving access to justice, reducing delay and cost within the justice system, modernising our services in line with reform, and using leading technology to improve our services for everyone.
The work of SCTS covers a broader range of issues than you may think. In providing support to Scotland’s courts, devolved tribunals and the OPG, we touch the lives of many people on a daily basis – be that through formal court or tribunal business, fulfilling your civic duty as a juror, paying fees or fines, seeking help in managing the affairs of an incapable adult or dealing with the estate of a loved one who has passed away. SCTS deals with over a quarter of a million cases and applications each year. Behind each one of these is an individual – looking to the system to help them assert their rights, address wrongs or provide support in a time of need. It is this work – which takes place every day in our courts, tribunals and administrative centres across Scotland – that consumes most of the time, energy and skill of our staff. We take pride in working as one team and providing high levels of service to all those who use the courts, tribunals and OPG. We are always looking to improve the services we provide – through innovation and development. Whilst delivering our core services is our priority, considering how we can improve and develop is also crucial to keep delivering the highest quality service.
To help direct us towards achieving our purpose successfully, we embrace three key values of respect, service and excellence. These guide our behaviour, decisions and actions - in pursuit of fulfilling our purpose to the highest standard.
Outline of job role and purpose:
The role of the Legal Adviser is truly unique. It is a unique and fulfilling role which is crucial to ensure the interests of justice are met within the Justice of the Peace Courts. This role allows you the opportunity to be a part of the criminal justice system, to work alongside SCTS business partners and to engage with professionals and the public on a daily basis. You will perform a key role, working closely with senior managers to deliver excellent service in Justice of the Peace (JP) courts in the Sheriffdom of South Strathclyde, Dumfries and Galloway. You will provide accurate legal and procedural advice to Justices (JPs) and support them within clearly defined roles. You will participate in training of JPs. You will take a proactive role in supporting the effective performance of the business team in response to service demands.
You must be admitted as a solicitor or advocate in Scotland (and hold, or could obtain, a current unrestricted practising certificate from the Law Society of Scotland).
Our benefits include:
- A supportive and professional induction programme with regular check-ins with your line manager
- Job stability and security with excellent and varied career prospects
- Flexible working arrangements
- 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 days after 4 years’ service) plus 11.5 public and privilege holidays
- Special leave and paid leave for study or voluntary public service
- Excellent Civil Service Pension Scheme
- Family friendly policies
- Free and confidential Employee Assistance
- A variety of staff discounts and offers with major retailers
- Payment of professional membership fees
- Access to opportunities across all Civil Service departments that are not available to non-Civil Servants
- Security of full pay when unwell (up to a maximum of 6 months)
- Learning and development (including digital) opportunities
The closing date for the post is: Wednesday 14 May 2025.
Interviews are expected to be held 23 May 2025.
To apply please visit our website here.
The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service is exempt from the protections of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). This permits us to ask applicants details of both spent and unspent convictions, along with details of any formal cautions that you may have. Individuals without existing security clearance will always be considered as all successful applicants will require a standard level Disclosure check completed before employment can commence.
If you feel at any time your application has not been treated in accordance with the values in the Civil Service Code and/or if you feel the recruitment has been conducted in such a way that conflicts with the Civil Service Commissioner’s Recruitment Principles, you can make a complaint, by contacting Social Security Scotland at recruitment@scotcourts.gov.uk in the first instance. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive you can contact the Civil Service Commissioner.
