Senior Lawyer - Water Industry Enforcement Team - 31834

The Environment Agency is seeking a Senior Lawyer for the Water Industry Enforcement Team. Our lawyers conduct criminal proceedings and advise on enforcement of environmental requirements. They also advise on the imposition of 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.

In this team you will have the opportunity to own an interesting caseload and contribute to supporting our commitment to improving the performance of the Water Industry. We are committed to an inclusive workforce and welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies, including job share. Please include any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

Responsibilities

• Hold and manage a substantive caseload related to water industry enforcement, including criminal proceedings and regulatory matters.
• Provide legal advice on civil sanctions (e.g., enforcement undertakings, monetary penalties) and regulatory responses to environmental offending.
• Advise on and undertake training related to disclosure requirements and the use of statutory/enforcement powers.
• Prepare cases for trial, including complex cases for the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court, and participate as a criminal advocate where required.
• Support the Environment Agency’s enforcement objectives and contribute to improving performance in the Water Industry.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Legal and Audit Services and travel to court and other locations as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified solicitor, barrister, or equivalent (FILEX with rights of audience in criminal proceedings). Higher rights advocate is desirable but not required.
• Experience as a prosecutor or defence lawyer in complex criminal cases involving environmental legislation or other complex criminal/regulatory law.
• Sound knowledge of criminal law, practice, and procedure, with trial experience in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court.
• Ability to advise on when to use civil sanctions in place of criminal proceedings and determine the appropriate regulatory response to environmental offending.

Additional Information

• This role receives a Market Forces Factor allowance of £5,250 per annum.
• Roles combine home working with attendance at the contractual office base, subject to business needs. The role can be based at any main hub location with travel to court and other locations as required.
• Interviews are planned during October 2025.
• For queries, contact LASrecruitment@environment-agency.gov.uk.

Location and Status

• West Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom
• Leeds/Bradford area depending on hub location

Employment Type

• Full-time

Job Function

• Legal