Legal Clerk

Overview of the Role

The Key Features of the Role Are:

• Provision of paralegal services to clients of the law centre under the supervision of a Solicitor/Managing Solicitor, having regard to any service delivery initiatives developed by the Board;

• Proactive management of case files in accordance with Board’s procedures, having full regard to the Board’s Risk Management Strategy, and

• Full engagement and utilisation of the Board’s ICT case management systems to obtain the maximum benefits from these systems;

• Full exploitation of the potential of the use of non-legal means to solve disputes;

• Adherence to the Board’s guidelines and procedures for the delivery of quality legal services.

Competencies

Candidates must be able to demonstrate clearly at interview that they possess the full range of competencies as set out in below. Candidates should have knowledge of the Civil Legal Aid Act, 1995, and the Regulations made thereunder, an understanding of the role of the Legal Aid Board and its operating environment, or the capacity to quickly acquire same.

Professional experience and delivery of legal services

• Demonstrates an understanding of the legislative framework governing civil legal aid in Ireland, and the ability to quickly develop an understanding of the Legal Aid Board, its role, functions and operating environment;

• Demonstrates an understanding of civil law and the role of a paralegal within the Irish legal system and the delivery of legal services.

• Demonstrates an ability to provide a timely, professional and client-focused legal service in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.

• Makes an active contribution both legal and administrative, to support the efficient, effective and client-focused delivery of legal services.

• Demonstrates the ability to work effectively in a demanding and pressurised environment, managing competing priorities while maintaining a high standard of work.

Analysis & Decision Making

• Effectively deals with a wide range of information sources, investigating all relevant issues

• Understands the practical implication of information in relation to the broader context in which s/he works –procedures, divisional objectives etc.

• Identifies and understands key issues and trends

• Correctly extracts & interprets numerical information, conducting accurate numerical calculations.

• Draws accurate conclusions & makes balanced and fair recommendations backed up with evidence.

Delivery of results

• Takes ownership of tasks and is determined to see them through to a satisfactory conclusion.

• Is logical and pragmatic in approach, setting objectives and delivering the best possible results with the resources available through effective prioritisation.

• Constructively challenges existing approaches to improve efficient customer service delivery.

• Accurately estimates time parameters for project, making contingencies to overcome obstacles.

• Minimises errors, reviewing learning and ensuring remedies are in place.

• Maximises the input of own team in ensuring effective delivery of results.

• Ensures proper service delivery procedures/protocols are in place and implemented.

Interpersonal and communication skills

• Modifies communication approach to suit the needs of a situation or audience

• Actively listens to the views of others

• Negotiates, where necessary, in order to reach a satisfactory outcome

• Maintains a focus on dealing with colleagues or clients in an effective, efficient and respectful manner

• Is assertive and professional when dealing with challenging issues

• Expresses self in a clear and articulate manner when speaking and in writing

Personal Drive and Commitment to Public Service Values

• Is committed to the role, consistently striving to perform at a high level

• Demonstrates flexibility and openness to change

• Is resilient and perseveres to achieve objectives despite obstacles or setbacks

• Ensures that customer service is at the heart of own/team work

• Is personally honest and trustworthy

• Acts with integrity and encourages this in others

Essential Entry Requirements

Candidates must, on or before Thursday 12th November 2026 have:

• A legal qualification to at least Diploma level (NFQ Level 7);*

and

• at least 2 year’s experience in a legal office

*National Framework Qualifications Level 7. Example: Ordinary Bachelor Degree

It should be noted by candidates that this position is not open to persons on the Roll of Solicitors.

It will be a matter for the Legal Aid Board to determine the eligibility of candidates having regard to their qualifications and experience. An invitation to interview is not an acceptance of eligibility.

As an Employer of Choice, the Civil Service has many flexible and family friendly policies e.g. Work-sharing, Shorter Working Year, Remote Working (operated on a ‘blended’ basis) etc. All elective policies can be applied for in accordance with the relevant statutory provisions and are subject to the business needs of the organisation and on a case-by-case basis.

The Civil Service also operates a Mobility scheme for all general service grades. This scheme provides staff with career opportunities to learn and partake in diverse roles across a range of Civil Service organisations and geographical locations.