Reports to: FLAC Director General

Overview of organisation

FLAC is a human rights organisation which exists to promote equal access to justice for all.

Overview of Role

The primary purpose of this role is to undertake research and policy analysis and to implement FLAC’s policy and campaigns, with a focus on Access to Justice, Civil Legal Aid and Social Welfare. This is a full-time position for two and a half years from 1 July 2015 to 31 December 2017.

Specific Duties

The Legal and Policy Officer will be employed to undertake legal and policy work in the areas of Access to Justice, Civil Legal Aid and Social Welfare Law. The Legal and Policy Officer will report to the Director General and will work under the supervision of the Director General.

To conduct research and assist in the formulation of policy in areas of law which are particularly relevant to FLAC’s work on behalf of marginalised and disadvantaged groups, with a particular focus on access to justice, civil legal aid and social welfare.
To develop and implement FLAC campaigns with a particular focus on access to justice, legal aid and social welfare law reform, including liaising with FLAC partners, lobbying and advocacy, and from time to time representing FLAC at national and international fora.
To support the Senior Solicitor and Director General on social welfare and legal aid casework.
To provide second-tier advice and specialist information to NGOs and CICs on the areas of access to justice, civil legal aid and social welfare law and to support FLAC’s telephone information line team with specific enquiries.
To prepare legal information materials and to provide training to Citizens Information Centres and other NGOs on Civil Legal Aid and Social Welfare Law.
To comply with FLAC’s Health and Safety policy and procedures
Any other duties as may reasonably be required from time to time in connection with this position.

Requirements for this position

Qualifications

Relevant degree

Experience

Experience in the areas of Social Welfare Law and/or Access to Justice
Experience of research and campaigns

Other

A commitment to human rights and social justice issues
Strong organisational, analytical, administrative and IT skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

To apply for this position please send CV and covering letter by email to recruitment @flac.ie or post to FLAC, 13 Lower Dorset Street, Dublin 1 by Friday 5th June at 5pm. Interviews will take place on Monday 15th June 2015.

P: (01) 8873600; F: (01) 8745320; E: info@flac.ie; W: www.flac.ie