Lawyer - Information Law

at  Environment Agency

Region
South West, West Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber
City/Town
Birmingham , Bristol , Leeds
Grade
Staff Grade 5
Post Type
Permanent
Role Type
Legal Services
Working Pattern
Full Time
Salary Minimum
£41,617
Closing Date:
01/12/2024, 23:55 hours
Security checks level
Basic Check
Job description
We are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We are looking for a Lawyer with an interest in developing an in-house career specialising in information law, particularly the requirements of the Data Protection Act, the Freedom of Information Act, and the Environmental Information Regulations. The role involves providing legal advice and guidance about both reactive and proactive disclosure of information, confidentiality, and working closely with policy colleagues to ensure we meet our statutory obligations. We give advice to all parts of the Environment Agency.
When decisions are challenged, this may include responding to complaints lodged with the Information Commissioner’s Office and the conduct of litigation in the First tier and Upper Tribunal. Ideally, you will have gained some experience of information law from your current or a previous role.
The team
This role is part of a small team of specialist lawyers who work closely with a wide range of internal clients. There may also be opportunities to become involved with employment issues as this falls within the remit of the team.
Experience/skills required
We are looking for a qualified solicitor, barrister or legal executive entitled to practice in England with some specialist knowledge and practical experience of information law, who has the ability to provide legal advice and assistance to our internal clients. A knowledge of environmental law would be useful.
Key requirements include excellent communication and organisation skills.
You are likely to be recently qualified (we welcome applications with those of 0-3 PQE although more would also be considered) or you may be moving to a new area of law. You will have knowledge and experience in Employment and Information Law, and you will have an interest in developing your expertise further.
Contact and additional information
We offer the option to combine home working with attendance at the contractual office base, subject to meeting business needs. There will be travel to court and other locations as required.
For further information please contact LASrecruitment@environment-agency.gov.uk.
Interviews will be held in person during December 2024.
Competence 1
Achieves Results
Description
Definition: Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results.
Please describe a challenging piece of work involving numerous tasks and/or tight timeframes that you have delivered alone or with a team.
Competence 2
Focuses on Customers and Partners
Description
Definition: Addresses the needs of internal and external customers, provides rapid and effective responses.
Please describe a situation where you met the needs of internal and external customers in challenging circumstances in order to provide effective and rapid and responses.
Competence 3
Legislative Knowledge
Description
Definition: Applies a knowledge of statutory environmental and/or technical requirements to protect both the Environment Agency and the environment.
Please give an example of a matter that you have been involved with that demonstrates the knowledge and experience that you would bring to this role.
Role specific license requirements
Current Practising Certificate