The post holder is responsible:
To Head Armed Forces Criminal Legal Aid Authority for the handling of applications for legal aid by service personnel, their dependents, and civil servants both in UK and overseas.
For all aspects of legal aid provision and case management, from initial application to the final settlement of fees at case conclusion, for up to 200 live cases at any one time, ensuring all relevant procedures and timelines are met in accordance with the civilian legal aid scheme regulations, whether directly or through supervision of the Assistant Case Officer (ACO).
For all financial aspects of case management including negotiating fees/costs with legal representatives (Solicitors, Barristers, or their support staff), and others i.e Experts, as appropriate to the case and in line with The Criminal Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations, latest revise. In particular, negotiate/agree fees with legal representatives, before instruction, for Overseas cases, discussing options available to secure the required outcome within financial constraints and MOD regulations.
To consider and make informed decisions in response to requests for prior authority to incur additional costs from legal representatives.
For the determination (review) of all bills received from legal representatives, including Experts, and authorisation of appropriate fees payable and for any subsequent re-determination requests where payments/deductions of the original bill are challenged.
Liaise with units and interaction with the Service Prosecution Authority (SPA), Military Court Service (MCS) and other key stakeholders, both internally and externally, when necessary, to contribute to efficient and effective legal aid processes.
To positively promote AFCLAA’s role and responsibilities and the principles/benefits of legal aid to all staff by presenting at the Army/RAF Discipline Courses on a monthly basis.
To cover ACO duties and assist other Case Officers during times of absence or busy periods, ensuring legal aid processes are prioritised in accordance with regulations.
The post holder is supported by an ACO, for whom they may have direct line management responsibility.
Ad Hoc duties as required by Head or Deputy Head AFCLAA.