Overview
Lay Representative – In-Court Advice Service, Hamilton
Location: Hamilton
Reporting to: Team Leader – In-Court Advice Service
Type of contract: permanent, subject to funding
This job is readvertised and any previous applicants need not apply.
About the Role
You will join a small, dedicated team providing advice and representation at Hamilton and Lanark Sheriff Courts to people affected by housing and connected debt issues, including those facing eviction. For over 15 years, our Lay Representation Service has delivered high-quality, person-centred support in line with Scottish National Standards. We work collaboratively with local partners and are committed to helping people protect their homes and financial stability.
About You
You will be an experienced housing and/or debt adviser with a strong understanding of issues affecting people in crisis. You’ll have experience working to SNS organisational and personal standards, and a person-centred approach to advice and support.
You will be:
* A skilled listener with empathy and a holistic outlook
* A confident communicator and persuasive negotiator
* Capable of representing clients in court, tribunals, or in negotiations with landlords
Experience in formal lay representation is highly desirable—but if you are an experienced caseworker looking to build these skills, we would love to hear from you.
This role may appeal to recent law graduates who are passionate about access to justice and want to gain hands-on experience in court representation, housing law, and debt advice. Full induction, training, and support will be provided.
Why work with us?
At Hamilton CAB, we recognise that our people – both staff and volunteers – are our greatest asset. We actively support wellbeing, professional development, and work-life balance. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to be part of something meaningful and to help shape the future of advice services in our community.
What we offer
* A values-driven workplace – Join a team dedicated to fairness, inclusivity, and making a real difference.
* Work-life balance – Flexible working options available.
* Generous leave entitlement – 28 days (FT) + Public Holidays
* Pension contributions – Employer contribution of 3%.
* Personal growth – Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
Purpose of the Role
To improve access to justice by providing free, high-quality advice, assistance, and representation to individuals facing mortgage repossession, rent arrears, and connected debt issues at Hamilton and Lanark Sheriff Courts.
This is a frontline role, supporting people at a critical point in their lives — helping them understand their rights, navigate complex legal processes, and stay in their homes wherever possible.
Key Responsibilities
1. Provide advice, assistance, and lay representation in Hamilton and Lanark Sheriff Courts for individuals facing housing-related legal proceedings, including repossession and sequestration.
2. Support the development of caseworkers and colleagues through mentoring, sharing expertise, and contributing to training.
3. Operate in line with Hamilton CAB’s values, policies, and procedures, contributing to service delivery, quality, and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Manage a caseload efficiently using Scottish National Standards (SNS)-compliant systems, ensuring high-quality casework and accurate records.
* Deliver advice and representation in a person-centred and empowering way, helping clients to understand their rights and options.
* Provide support and guidance to colleagues and partners, including caseworkers in referring agencies.
* Maintain and develop your own legal knowledge and skills through continuous professional development.
* Assist the Team Leader in monitoring service outcomes and reporting to stakeholders.
* Contribute to the design and delivery of training sessions, toolkits, and practical resources for CAB staff and external partners.
* Deliver awareness-raising sessions to help clients, advisers, and other professionals better understand court processes and relevant paperwork.
The above job description is not exhaustive and is clarified to include broad duties inherent in the post as reasonable requested by the Team Leader.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone with a strong background in housing or debt advice, who is passionate about defending people’s rights and experienced—or keen to develop—in representing clients in court.
You’ll be an empathetic and confident communicator, capable of supporting both clients and colleagues, and committed to improving outcomes for people facing difficult financial and legal circumstances.
This role is also a great opportunity for recent law graduates who are passionate about access to justice and want to gain practical, hands-on experience in civil procedure, advocacy, and client representation. If you’re ready to use your legal knowledge to make a tangible difference in people’s lives—and develop your courtroom skills with full training and support—we’d love to hear from you.
Person Specification
* Strong knowledge of the Scottish civil justice system, particularly in relation to housing, debt, and court processes.
* Competence in housing and diligence law to Scottish National Standards Type III level.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present cases clearly and confidently in court or in negotiation.
* Experience working with vulnerable individuals, including those facing homelessness or financial crisis.
* Demonstrates integrity, maintains confidentiality, and works to the highest ethical standards.
* Proven resilience and emotional awareness when dealing with sensitive, high-pressure situations.
* Flexibility in approach, with the ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities.
* Shows tenacity and determination in advocating for clients and achieving positive outcomes.
* Recent experience of providing representation in civil court matters, particularly in housing or debt-related cases.
* Experience in supporting and guiding advisers or caseworkers, either informally or in a supervisory capacity.
* Experience in the design and/or delivery of training, particularly within advice services or the voluntary sector.
Interested?
Closing Date: midnight on Tuesday 30th September 2025
Interviews: week commencing the 6th October 2025
To make an application, please head to our website, where you will find further details, the application form, and the equal opportunities form.
For further Information or an informal chat please contact: morag.mcdonald@hamiltoncab.casonline.org.uk
Join us and help make sure no one faces their problems alone.
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