Lawyer - Disciplinary Cases

Job Purpose

The management of the investigation of concerns against veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, in particular cases being investigated by the Preliminary Investigation Committee; ongoing management of cases under the Health and Performance Protocols; preparation of cases referred to the Disciplinary Committee; communication with complainants and respondents and the provision of advice to senior stakeholders and colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

1. Responsibility for the investigation of cases referred to the Preliminary Investigation (Pl) Committee; attending meetings and providing legal advice to the Pl Committee; taking minutes of meetings;
2. Responsibility for the preparation of cases to be heard by the DC including the Instruction of external solicitors or barristers and veterinary experts
3. Liaising with the DC Clerk on the listing of cases referred to the Disciplinary Committee
4. Considering disclosures of convictions and cautions by veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses for the Registrar and the Pl Committee, reporting annually.
5. Manage cases under the health and performance protocols in accordance with the conditions set by the Pl Committee, liaising with medical supervisors and examiners
6. Manage High Court judicial reviews and Privy Council appeals on behalf of the RCVS and supporting the Head of Professional Conduct with specific projects
7. Managing projects relating to the development of the complaints and Disciplinary procedures,
8. Communicating and engaging with internal and external stakeholders
9. Supporting the training and development of the team and wider legal directorate
10. Providing high quality legal advice to senior stakeholders on a range of legal issues, such as information law.
11. Potential for line management responsibilities for members of the team.

Essential Criteria

Qualifications

• Solicitor or Barrister registered with the appropriate professional body, or equivalent qualifications.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• Extensive experience in practising within professional regulation or other regulatory environment – experience dealing with the investigation and preparation of disciplinary regulatory cases and complaints is desirable
• In-depth knowledge of legal aspects of professional regulation;
• Experience in advising on a range of legal areas including information law.
• Experience of managing teams delivering work within tight time frames with competing priorities
• Experience of managing systems;
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills;
• Excellent drafting and written communication skills;
• Ability to build and sustain positive working relationships across the organisation
• Self motivated and able to motivate colleagues
• Experience of and a strong commitment to the improvement of individual and team performance
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion