Senior Crown Counsel

The role of Senior Crown Counsel provide legal advice as well as prosecute cases in order to maintain the integrity of the legal system in a professional manner.

Opening Date: 23 August 2023

Closing Date: 06 September 2023

Location: Tortola Vacancy Notice No. JLSC 4 of 2023

Job Classification: Grade 15

Ministry/Department/Unit: Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

Position Details: Contractual or Probationary period Established position

Employment Type: Full-time Remuneration/Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range $51,069 – $57,401 and applicable allowances. A tax-free gratuity, housing allowance and reallocation allowance applicable to contracted candidates.

ROLE SUMMARY

The role of Senior Crown Counsel provide legal advice as well as prosecute cases in order to maintain the integrity of the legal system in a professional manner.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Serve as Senior Counsel in the Courts and assist Senior Officers during criminal trials in order to maintain the activities of the Court.

2. Prepare cases, draft charges and arguments, letters, opinions and legal documents as well as manage the preparation, filing and service of documents.

3. Prepare outgoing letters of request for legal assistance in criminal matters and advise on incoming letters of request for legal assistance in criminal matters when required.

4. Provide written legal advice to Commissions, Government Ministries and Departments, and attend meetings to provide immediate oral advice on legal matters as required in order to provide timely and professional information.

5. Attend/Participate relevant workshops and seminars and assist with presentations when requested in order to represent the Department and ensure awareness of up-to-date legislation, knowledge and information.

6. Undertakes general legal assignments including the drafting and/or vetting of legal matters.

7. Prepare for adjudication of matters, negotiate amicable settlements: contract or court.

8. Serve on various committees as required.

9. Supervise and lead Crown Counsel in the management of cases.

10. Perform any other related duties as required by Supervisor or any other senior officer in order to contribute to the effectiveness and efficiency of the Department.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

1. Manage relationships across the organization

2. Provide leadership for the organization

3. Encourage innovation in the organization

4. Communicate and influence effectively

5. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, ethical and social requirements

6. Manage your own resources, development and networks

7. Obtain and analyse information for critical decision-making

WORKING CONDITIONS/ ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

 Normal office environment

 Courtroom environment

 Extended working hours

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

 Barrister with a Certificate of Legal Education

                   OR

 Equivalent Barrister Certification

 Bar Professional Training Course Certificate (BPTC)

 Admitted to the BVI Bar or imminent Call or other common law Bar qualifications

 Five (5) years post qualification experience

 One (1) to two (2) years high court experience

 Expert knowledge of Government structure, policies and procedures

 Expert knowledge and experience in criminal prosecutions

 Proven experience in criminal law in the areas of crime, money laundering and asset forfeiture

 Excellent knowledge of applicable statutes and statutory interpretation

 Excellent knowledge of and experience in Court proceedings

 Ability to master and interpret legislation

 Sound knowledge of the use of standard office equipment and computer applications

 Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and verbally

 Sound analytical, negotiating, interpersonal and organisational skills

 Ability to work under pressure

 Sound legal research skills

HOW TO APPLY All applications for employment to the Public Service, including applications for transfer under the Employee Mobility Programme must be submitted to the address provided below by the job closing date. Agency: Judicial and Legal Services Commission c/o Department of Human Resources Simms Building Road Town, Tortola VG 1110 British Virgin Islands. Applicants should submit the Employment Application (available at: www.bvi.gov.vg); a Résumé/Curriculum Vitae of their relevant experience and qualifications; with two personal reference letters; certified copies of identification, citizenship, and academic certifications/diplomas/licenses, along with a police certificate from your place of residency. Applying through the Employee Mobility Programme: Applicants interested in transferring to the Public Service through the Employee Mobility Programme must submit the standard Employment Application (see above) along with the Employee Mobility Application (available at: www.bvi.gov.vg/services/emp. All sections of both forms must be thoroughly completed in order to prevent delays in processing applications. For more information about the Employee Mobility Programme, click www.bvi.gov.vg/services/emp. Important Notice: Qualified candidates who are considered for potential employment with the Government of the Virgin Islands may be requested to provide further criminal history record information. Evidence of a criminal conviction or other relevant information obtained shall not automatically disqualify an individual from employment with the Government of the Virgin Islands.