Overview

The Environment Agency seeks a Senior Lawyer to join the Water Industry Enforcement Team. Lawyers conduct criminal proceedings, advise on enforcement of environmental requirements, and advise on civil sanctions such as enforcement undertakings and variable monetary penalties. They provide training on disclosure requirements and the use of statutory and enforcement powers. The role offers an 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 indicate preferred working arrangements on your application.

Responsibilities

• Conduct criminal proceedings and advise on enforcement of environmental requirements.
• Advise on the imposition of civil sanctions (enforcement undertakings, 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 supporting the Water Industry enforcement objectives.
• Work within the Water Industry Enforcement Team as part of the Enforcement and Prosecution team within Legal and Audit Services.
• Travel to court and other locations as required; home working combined with attendance at the contractual office base.

Experience and 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 Magistrates’ Court; ability to prepare complex cases for trial and sentence in Crown Court.
• Higher rights advocate may be beneficial but is not a requirement.
• Ability to advise on the Environment Agency’s use of civil sanctions in place of criminal proceedings and determine appropriate regulatory response to environmental offending.

Role specifics

• Location: Water Industry Enforcement Team within Legal and Audit Services; multiple hub locations.
• Salary note: This role receives a Market Forces Factor allowance of £5,250 per annum.
• Interviews: We will hold interviews during October 2025.
• Contact: LASrecruitment@environment-agency.gov.uk for queries.

Other information

• We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce reflecting the communities we serve; flexible working patterns including job share are welcome.
• Guaranteed Interview Policy for applicants with disabilities who meet minimum criteria.
• The Environment Agency is a Non-Departmental Public Body; guidance on eligibility and continuity of service applies for certain prior service scenarios.
• There will be travel to court and other locations as required.