Play your part in protecting the independence of the justice system: Long
Date published:
Justice Minister Naomi Long is seeking to recruit Chairpersons and Members for Civil Legal Services Appeal Panels.
The appeal panels consider and adjudicate on appeals against decisions to refuse to fund representation in court.
Minister Long said:
“Independent Appeal Panels are an important safeguard to protect the independence of individual decisions on the granting of civil legal aid. I am seeking applications from those who believe they can bring the essential wealth of experience, skills and knowledge necessary for these demanding roles.
“This is an exciting time with the current reform of civil and criminal justice and we will need the right people to ensure the right decisions on legal aid are made. I encourage anyone with an interest in access to justice and the provision of publicly funded legal services, and who have the necessary experience to apply.”
The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 noon on 28 March 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
Candidate information packs and applications forms are available on the NICS Recruitment website.
Notes to editors:
- The Legal Services Agency is empowered to grant or refuse Civil Legal Services and there is a right of appeal against those decisions. The Department is seeking to appoint a pool of suitably qualified/experienced people from a range of professional backgrounds, from which Appeal Panels will be drawn.
- The Department of Justice is committed to the principles of public appointments based on merit with independent assessment, openness and transparency of process. The Department is committed to providing equality of opportunity for all applicants. Applications are welcomed regardless of age, gender, disability, marital status, religion, ethnic origin, political opinion, sexual orientation or whether or not you have dependants.
- Candidate information booklets and application forms can be provided in alternative formats and applicants requiring assistance will be facilitated on request. Applicants invited for interview will be eligible for re-imbursement of reasonable travelling expenses.
- All media enquiries should be directed to the Department of Justice Press Office 028 9052 6139. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.