- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- knowledge of English language
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to read English
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- active listening skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
In this role you could be:
- managing court schedules to make the best use of time and resources
- preparing for court sessions and making sure evidence is ready
- advising magistrates on the law and procedures
- making sure defendants understand how the court works
- reading charges to the court
- identifying and researching legal issues during hearings
- helping with the decision-making process using a formal method
- training administrative staff and magistrates
You could work in a court or in an office.
The legal adviser career structure has 5 levels, known as tiers. On any tier, you could become a mentor. To move up, you'll need to prove your ability in your current role.
With 5 years' experience, you could become a deputy district judge or district judge (magistrates' courts). With more experience, you could become a justices' clerk (running several courts).
You could also apply for legal and non-legal secondments within the wider departments of Her Majesty's Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS), the Ministry of Justice and other government agencies.
Another option is to move into private practice as a solicitor or barrister, or join the Crown Prosecution Service as a crown prosecutor or crown advocate.
The Bar Council and The Law Society have more information about legal careers and training.
