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Legal Members
The Investigatory Powers Tribunal invites applications from suitably qualified persons to become Legal members of the Tribunal. Details of the qualification requirements are contained in the information pack. Successful applicants are expected to take up appointment in Spring 2027.
The Tribunal was established by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA). It investigates complaints about:
- conduct by various public bodies, in relation to individuals, their property or communications
- any alleged conduct by or on behalf of the Security Service (MI5), the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters).
The Tribunal also has jurisdiction to consider claims under the Human Rights Act 1998 against a number of public bodies, mainly the police, other law enforcement agencies and the intelligence services.
The Tribunal has a UK-wide jurisdiction. It is composed of judges, drawn from the High Court and the equivalent in Scotland, and legally qualified persons who also act as judges of the Tribunal. The President is Lady Carmichael, a Senator of the College of Justice in Scotland who sits in the Inner House of the Court of Session. The Vice-President of the Tribunal, Mrs Justice Farbey, sits in the High Court of England and Wales.
The Tribunal is seeking at least three distinguished lawyers with a proven track records of expertise capable of being applied to the work of the Tribunal. The appointees should be able to make judicial decisions on issues which can be of national importance and involve dealing with sensitive/ classified material. The successful candidates will have considerable experience in the law at a senior level, be familiar with administrative law and have sufficient knowledge and understanding of the legislative framework including RIPA, the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 and the Human Rights Act 1998. Judicial experience will be an advantage.
Members can expect at least 15 days work annually, paid a daily fee equivalent to that of a Deputy High Court Judge. Travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed where applicable. Further details are available in the Information Pack.
Appointments are made by HM The King under Letters Patent for a period of five years. Members are eligible for re-appointment. The Tribunal policy is that, save in exceptional circumstances, service will normally be limited to two terms. Members are expected to retire at age 75.
How to apply
Please email: info@ipt.independent.gov.uk
