First Instance Depute Clerk

Job description

About

As First Instance Depute Clerk, you will fulfil the role of Depute Clerk of Session and Justiciary dealing with First Instance business in the High Court of Justiciary and the Court of Session. This includes providing technical and procedural advice; support to Judges, colleagues and members of the legal profession and developing close links with these key stakeholders and supervision of a Macer (Support Grade Assistant).

Due to the nature of the role, frequent travel to other High Court locations throughout Scotland is to be expected. A full driving license is preferred, but not essential.

The Key Responsibilities Include:

• Discharging the role of Clerk of Court in First Instance Civil and Criminal business, including the preparation of all papers, management of Jurors and the sitting, recording of disposals, preparing and issuing of orders, reviewing and issuing judicial opinions.

• Discharging functions delegated by rule of court or statute, e.g. the disposal of unstarred motions in the Outer House.

• Providing Judges with practical support and advice on procedure as required to assist in fulfilling their judicial duties.

• Providing advice on procedure and practice to the legal profession and other court users.

• Responsibility for considering the potential impact of new legislation upon SCTS practices and procedures; advising interested parties to ensure appropriate and effective application.

• Providing information to witnesses and members of the public on practical issues associated with their attendance at court.

• Establishing effective communications and working relationships with legal practitioners and others litigating, prosecuting and defending before the court, using those channels as appropriate to assist in the efficient management of the business.

• Day to day supervision of one Macer (SGB2). This involves a degree of performance management, providing input to Support Grade managers to assist reporting on staff performance in accordance with Scottish Court and Tribunals Service guidelines.

• Contributing to local and corporate projects as required.

• Undertaking administrative work in the Offices of Court (Civil and Criminal) as and when required.