Appointment of a Legal Member (Solicitor) to the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland (JABS)

The Scottish Government

Nov 1

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Expert Level
Legal
Edinburgh

Requirements

For this role you must be a solicitor practising as such in Scotland.
In addition to providing information on how you meet the criteria below, you will be asked to provide a statement outlining any ongoing or settled complaints to any relevant professional body or regulator.
For this role you must have sufficient standing in the legal profession and have substantial experience as a solicitor in private practice.
For this role you must be able to make balanced and fair assessments of applications and, at interview, of candidates suitability for judicial appointments, for which you will receive training. In particular, as a legal member you will be required to assess candidates’ knowledge of and skills and competence in the interpretation and application of the law.
As a board member you must have the ability to understand and analyse complex information and to make objective balanced judgements in all aspects of the work of the Board.
Ability to work collaboratively, challenge constructively and work in a consensual environment.
Recognition of the need for and challenges of increasing diversity in judicial appointments.
An understanding of the frameworks required to ensure effective governance of anorganisation.

Responsibilities

The role of JABS is to recommend to the First Minister or other relevant Minister, individuals for appointment to judicial offices within the Board’s remit. It makes recommendations for the following appointments:
These recommendations are made solely on merit following an application and assessment process which considers the legal, judicial and personal qualities of candidates. They must also be of good character.
The Board comprises judicial, legal and lay members.
The role of the legal member (Solicitor) is to participate in decision-making on the suitability of individual applicants for judicial appointment and contribute to the development of the board’s policies.

FAQs

What is the role of the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland (JABS)?

JABS recommends individuals for appointment to various judicial offices in Scotland, assessing candidates based on merit through an application and assessment process.

What qualifications are necessary to apply for the legal member (Solicitor) position?

Applicants must be solicitors practising in Scotland with substantial experience in private practice and sufficient standing in the legal profession.

Is there a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants with disabilities?

Yes, there is a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants with disabilities.

How many days of commitment are expected for this role?

The estimated time commitment is around 30-40 days per year, though it may vary based on the Board's work demands.

Will I be reimbursed for expenses incurred while performing my duties as a board member?

Yes, reasonable travel and subsistence costs, along with dependant carer and childcare expenses, will be reimbursed.

Is this position pensionable?

No, appointments to this position are non-pensionable.

What skills and qualities are desirable for this role?

Desirable qualities include an understanding of effective governance frameworks, ability to analyze complex information, and recognition of the need for increased diversity in judicial appointments.

How can I get support for my application?

You can contact public.appointments@gov.scot for support with your application.

Who regulates the appointments process for JABS?

The appointments process is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

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Mission & Purpose

The devolved government for Scotland is responsible for most of the issues of day-to-day concern to the people of Scotland, including health, education, justice, rural affairs, and transport. The Scottish Government was known as the Scottish Executive when it was established in 1999 following the first elections to the Scottish Parliament. The current administration was formed after elections in May 2007. The Government's Purpose: To focus government and public services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth.