Overview

Senior Lawyer - Water Industry Enforcement Team - 31834

The Environment Agency’s legal teams handle criminal proceedings and provide advice on enforcing environmental requirements. They advise on civil sanctions such as enforcement undertakings and variable monetary penalties, and provide training to staff on disclosure requirements and the use of statutory and enforcement powers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct criminal proceedings and advise on enforcement of environmental requirements.
• Advise on the imposition of civil sanctions (e.g., 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 improving the performance of the Water Industry.
• Support flexible working practices and be available to attend contractual office bases as required; travel to court and other locations as needed.
• Work within the Water Industry Enforcement Team, part of the Enforcement and Prosecution team within Legal and Audit Services.

Experience / Skills

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

Other Details

• Market Forces Factor allowance of £5,250 per annum.
• Role combines home working with attendance at the contractual office base; locations include main hub locations; travel to court and other locations as required.
• Interviews planned for October 2025.
• Contact: LASrecruitment@environment-agency.gov.uk

Additional Information

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome flexible working patterns, including job share. A Guaranteed Interview Policy is in place to support applicants with disabilities who meet minimum criteria. This role is not part of HM Civil Service. For status inquiries, consult your HR team.