Overview

The Environment Agency is seeking a Senior Lawyer for the Water Industry Enforcement Team. The role involves criminal proceedings and advising on enforcement of environmental requirements, including the imposition of civil sanctions such as enforcement undertakings and variable monetary penalties. You will also provide training to staff on disclosure requirements and the use of statutory and enforcement powers.

In this team you will have the opportunity to own an interesting caseload and contribute to improving the performance of the Water Industry. We are committed to an inclusive workforce and welcome flexible working patterns, including job share; please include any information about your preferred working arrangements in your application.

Responsibilities

• Conduct criminal proceedings and advise on enforcement of environmental requirements.
• Advise on the imposition of civil sanctions (enforcement undertakings and variable monetary penalties).
• Provide training to staff on disclosure requirements and the use of statutory and enforcement powers.
• Own an interesting caseload and contribute to the Water Industry’s performance.
• Work with the Enforcement and Prosecution team within Legal and Audit Services.

Experience/Skills/Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor, barrister or equivalent (FILEX with rights of audience in criminal proceedings).
• Ideally experience as a prosecutor or defence lawyer in complex criminal cases concerning breaches of environmental legislation or other complex criminal/regulatory law.
• Sound knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure; experienced criminal advocate with trial experience in the Magistrates’ Court; experience preparing complex cases for trial and sentence in the Crown Court.
• Higher rights advocate status is desirable but not required.
• Ability to advise on the right regulatory response to environmental offending and to use civil sanctions where appropriate.

Role-specific information

• Market Forces Factor allowance of £5,250 per annum.
• Flexible working patterns and travel to court and other locations as required; role can be based at main hub locations; mixture of home working and office attendance according to business needs.
• Interviews will be held during October 2025.
• For queries please contact LASrecruitment@environment-agency.gov.uk.

Team and Location

The role is based in the Water Industry Enforcement Team, part of the Enforcement and Prosecution team within Legal and Audit Services. Roles can be based in West Yorkshire (Leeds/Huddersfield area) with travel to court and other locations as required.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

We are fully committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce reflecting the communities we serve. Flexible working arrangements, including job share, are welcomed. We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support disabled applicants meeting the minimum criteria.

The Environment Agency is a Non-Departmental Public Body and participates in Central Government frameworks and contracts for recruitment. For details on working with the Crown Commercial Service or becoming a supplier, see the government link in the original listing.