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The Welsh Government is in the midst of a period of exceptional change at a critical time in UK and Welsh affairs and the decisions associated with this work are under unprecedented scrutiny and challenge. Consequently, we are looking to recruit a number of talented litigation lawyers to join the Department to conduct a wide range of litigation work brought by and against the Welsh Government.

Our litigation lawyers play a key role in delivering successful outcomes for the Welsh Ministers across a broad range of policy areas, by defending their decisions when challenged, and ensuring that the devolution settlement is protected. The work of the Department’s Litigation Team consists of core public law litigation including judicial reviews and references to the Supreme Court, where questions of constitutional importance are determined. Litigation lawyers also have conduct of Tribunal cases, and potentially civil litigation matters, and support the Government in inquests and public inquiries. The work is high-profile, challenging, involves attendance at court and tribunals (including some opportunities for advocacy, e.g. in the First-Tier Tribunal) and provides a unique opportunity to handle cases of significant constitutional interest.

With more than 100 lawyers and support staff, organised across a wide variety of subject areas, the Legal Services Department is the largest public sector legal department in Wales. It is responsible for the delivery of all legal services to the Welsh Ministers. The Department’s lawyers are at the heart of devolved government, playing a central role in the development of Welsh primary and secondary legislation, and advising on complex matters of public law, high value government contracts, on projects of national significance and major constitutional developments.

If you have experience of litigation – particularly in relation to public and administrative law – and are attracted by working at the forefront of the law on litigation which is of importance in Wales and beyond, the Welsh Government would welcome your interest.

The work of the Department is varied and wide ranging and can sometimes include working alongside or overseeing the work of external legal advisers. Specific responsibilities will therefore be determined by reference to the particular skills and experience of the lawyers appointed to these roles. However, successful candidates can expect to have the following responsibilities:

• Providing, and contributing to the provision of, legal advice in connection with all aspects of public law litigation from initial investigation/pre-action stage until final determination and costs;
• Drafting, or assisting with the drafting of, relevant documentation arising out of legal proceedings, including responses to pre-action protocol letters, particulars of claim, defence statements, statements of costs, witness statements, etc.;
• Managing a caseload so as to ensure compliance with the Civil Procedure Rules and/or the relevant tribunal rules;
• Considering the necessary disclosure searches in accordance with the duty of candour;
• Conducting advocacy where appropriate – attendance at court and/or tribunals will be required;
• Instructing and supporting external Counsel to provide specialist advice, and/or conduct advocacy in cases brought by or against the Government;
• Compliance with professional conduct and ethical rules, and helping to grow the reputation of the team as fair and responsible litigators;
• Developing best practice for the management of litigation brought by or against the Welsh Government;
• Provide training in areas of expertise to client departments.

Job Specific Criteria;

• Experience of conducting and advising on public law litigation – particularly in a regulatory context and/or in relation to judicial review proceedings;
• A sound understanding of the relevant procedural rules and legislative framework governing public law litigation;
• Knowledge of the Welsh devolution settlement.

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together
• Delivering at Pace

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%

Job contact :

Name :
Legal Recruitment
Email :
LegalRecruitment.WG.Legal@gov.wales

Recruitment team :

Email :
sharedservicehelpdesk@gov.wales