Lead Solicitor, Public Inquiry — Investigations

Scottish Government OGD Recruitment; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Jay Inquiry, a statutory public inquiry established under the Inquiries Act 2005, is seeking a Deputy Solicitor to lead the Inquiry investigations team in Scotland. You will work closely with the Solicitor to the Inquiry to investigate evidence, identify witnesses, manage oral hearings, and contribute to interim reports and publication deadlines.

The role requires leadership in a fast-paced, independent environment, coordinating with Counsel to support the Chair and ensure timely delivery of

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to the Chair and the Inquiry team, particularly in relation to the application of the Inquiries Act 2005, the Inquiries (Scotland) Rules 2007, and data handling requirements, including data protection matters.
• Instruct and liaise with Counsel to the Inquiry to identify lines of inquiry to be pursued by the Investigations Team.
• Draft the Inquiry's procedure and protocol documents, monitoring and ensuring compliance with them.
• Work closely with the Delivery & Assurance Programme Team to develop plans and witness trackers that support oral hearing delivery timescales.
• Work closely with the Records & Evidence Team to ensure that the Inquiry record complies with data protection legislation and is appropriately prepared for transfer to the National Records of Scotland.
• Liaise with solicitors representing Core Participants.
• As a member of the leadership team, contribute to a positive working environment that supports diversity, equality, and health and wellbeing.
• Work with other teams to identify, manage, and review evidence and documents submitted to the Inquiry.
• Lead the recruitment and line management of Assistant Solicitors and other legal team members, providing resilience, motivation and support to develop individuals and teams, manage change, and meet challenging deadlines and competing priorities.

Job description

The Jay Inquiry, a statutory public inquiry established under the Inquiries Act 2005, is seeking a Deputy Solicitor to lead the Inquiry investigations team in Scotland. You will work closely with the Solicitor to the Inquiry to investigate evidence, identify witnesses, manage oral hearings, and contribute to interim reports and publication deadlines.

The role requires leadership in a fast-paced, independent environment, coordinating with Counsel to support the Chair and ensure timely delivery of