Assist the Civil Claims Lawyer and Civil Claims Manager in the processing and investigation of civil claims made against the Chief Constable and to provide administrative support as required. Provide an efficient and effective legal service to Essex Police as a whole which assists in and limits liability and negative reputation.
Main Responsibilities
* Investigate claims made against the Chief Constable by taking statements, gathering evidence, preparing written reports, complying with court directions and preparing and progressing case files/paperwork to limit liability against Essex Police.
* Provide efficient administration support for the Civil Claims Team, producing accurate and well-presented documents, correspondence, spreadsheet and reports as required using desktop publishing packages as appropriate to provide effective communications for the Legal Services Department.
* Maintain an effective filing and records system including computerised file tracking, undertaking the prompt location and retrieval of on-going files and archived material, identifying the requirement for further action if required and arranging for the completion of any outstanding work in order to provide effective support to the Legal Services Department and the smooth and timely progression of cases.
* Provide a comprehensive and confidential service to one or more of the Departments lawyers including arranging meetings, conferences and interviews, co-ordinate diaries and schedules, maintain files and records, respond to correspondence and telephone enquiries in order to maintain the high-quality standards and ensure that actions are taken within the prescribed time limits.
* Maintain and develop effective working relationships with all the civil courts, solicitors, barristers, Divisional personnel and keep abreast with developments in legislation and case law and review working practices as appropriate, in order to ensure that the Force is provided with the best value and high quality legal services.
Values Courage
Making, communicating and being accountable for decisions, standing against anything that could bring our profession into disrepute. When motivated by courage, we actively uphold the ethical standards of the police service to do the right thing even when circumstances are difficult. We set good examples, challenge unprofessional behaviour and all forms of prejudice, and any activity which undermines the impartiality of policing. We build and maintain public confidence by conducting ourselves in an honest and open manner.
Respect and Empathy
Encouraging, listening to and understanding the views of others, seeking to recognise and respond to physical, mental and emotional challenges. We treat people with patience and courtesy, recognising the need to prioritise safety and security. We provide opportunities for sharing views and incorporate these in decision making, ensuring fairness and equal treatment and managing biases to engage fairly with diverse needs.
Public Service
Respect authority and influence, applying powers lawfully, proportionately and when necessary. Striving to deliver positive public outcomes, learning and improving professionally, reflecting on actions to improve service, ensuring best interest of society and safeguarding safety and wellbeing for all communities.
Technical Skills – Case File Preparation (Level 3)
* Identify and present case materials, working with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to progress the case.
* Record, retain and reveal all unused material, distinguishing between sensitive and non-sensitive.
* Ensure quality and accuracy of file contents, presenting evidence logically and with integrity.
* Present honest and objective comments regarding strengths and weaknesses of the case in a fair and justifiable manner to the CPS.
* Liaise with the Criminal Justice Unit (CJU) and/or CPS for advice, as required submit the correct and completed case file to the CJU in the required time scales.
* Respond promptly and positively to CJU and CPS requests in respect of further actions.
Information Gathering and Analysis – Level 4
* Identify reliable and appropriate sources of information and select methods of gathering information which are efficient and effective.
* Has a working knowledge of legislation and policy relevant to the collection, recording, storage and distribution of information.
Information Management and Technology – Level 4
* Conduct basic computer searches and correctly interpret data generated.
* Create and amend records, according to role requirement.
* Know established rules and protocols.
* Understand impact of data quality, and self‑monitor data quality issues.
Knowledge of Criminal Justice Environment and Policies – Level 3
* For KCJB staff only.
* Basic awareness of current criminal justice issues, the environment in which KCJB operates and developments in the criminal justice process.
* Possesses sufficient knowledge of the roles of the various organisation structures and criminal justice systems to operate effectively.
* Understands, appreciates and adheres to working procedures and policies relevant to the current role.
* Familiar with KCJB goals and business plan objectives.
Knowledge of Police Environment and Policy – Level 3
* Basic awareness of current policing issues, the environment in which Kent Police and / or Essex Police operate and developments in the way the county is policed.
* Possesses sufficient knowledge of the roles of the various areas, departments, organisation structures and police systems to operate effectively.
* Understands, appreciates and adheres to working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role.
* Familiar with Force goals and local business plan objectives.
Legal – Level 3
* Familiar with procedures and documentation relating to one or more major areas of relevant legal activity such as property disputes.
* Has the ability to assess and prioritise incoming correspondence and advise senior legal colleagues accordingly.
Office Technology – Level 3
* Utilise relevant Force standard office software products such as word processing and document creation, spreadsheet, database, presentation and desktop publishing packages to a standard that matches the requirements of the current role in terms of quality and speed.
* Operate other essential office technology such as photocopiers and shredders and utilise IT products available through Office 365 to share information and aid communications and to effectively undertake the requirements of the current role.
* Aware of the implications of Data Protection and acts appropriately in this respect.
The postholder will have had practical experience over the last 1 to 2 years in a role where they have had discretion in dealing with confidential issues. Knowledge of both civil law and criminal law would be a distinct advantage. Practical knowledge of Essex Police IT systems including Athena and Axon would be preferable but not essential as training can be provided.
GCSE Level or equivalent qualification. The post-holder will be required to organise and prioritise their own workload which will require strong organisational skills, together with the ability to work independently and under pressure. The ability to adapt and improve the available systems within the Civil Claims Team is required to meet the changing needs of the organisation. The post holder will require good communication skills, particularly to support correspondence and report writing, is essential. The post holder must have the ability to deal tactfully and diplomatically with people, using sound judgment and discretion when discussing current cases. The post holder will also need effective interpersonal skills to communicate appropriately with officials from the Civil Courts, partnership agencies, legal representatives, and all levels within the Force. The post holder will need to have a methodical approach to their work and experience of running a range of administrative and police related office systems would be desirable. Competent information technology skills including a variety of Microsoft packages such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint are essential. Fast and accurate word processing skills are required together with a good standard of grammar and spelling.
Selected Skills
* Communicate effectively and compassionately, tailoring communication so I can be easily understood by others.
* Seek to understand and manage my own emotions to remain effective, even under pressure.
* Seek out support to help me perform effectively.
* Recognise that some situations might affect my ability to deal with stress and pressure.
* Adapt my style and approach by understanding the emotional needs of the people.
* Work with and with the public.
* Understand the concerns of others even when they are unable to express themselves clearly.
Life on the beat isn't for everyone but that doesn't mean you can't work for Essex Police. If the helmet and boots aren't up your street, life as a member of police staff just might be. Your skills, experience and expertise could be what we're looking for.
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