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Job description

Thank you for your interest in the post of Principal Legal Officer (PLO) in the Commercial & Property Division of the Departmental Solicitor’s Office (DSO), which is part of the Department of Finance. This competition is to fill 2 PLO vacancies. DSO supports the delivery of public services by providing key legal advice and services to all Northern Ireland Ministers and Departments in a complex constitutional, political and legal environment. Staff are engaged in a wide variety of work, often at the leading edge of issues relevant to government. In this role, you will be providing commercial property advice on a range of significant matters. This is a role which demands not only outstanding legal knowledge but an understanding of the workings of government. Support will be provided by an experienced team so if you have a passion for public service and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal practice, then you are strongly encouraged to consider this opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Drafting contract and property transfer documentation.
• Advice on vesting process and procedure and acting for Departments in vesting compensation claims and other related property matters.
• Please see page 9 of the Candidate Information Booklet (CIB) for more details.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Be a Solicitor of the Court of Judicature of Northern Ireland qualified to practice in Northern Ireland.
• Have at least 5 years post qualification commercial conveyancing experience. (Qualification being the date of enrolment with the Law Society of Northern Ireland).

Desirable Skills

• At least 2 years continuous practical experience of working in one or more of the areas listed on page 16 of the CIB.

Further Information

NICS Application form only, Vacancy closing date Friday 13th February 2026 at 12 noon. Applications from Protestants, males, young people (people under the age of 35), people with a disability and people from minority ethnic communities are particularly welcomed for this post. All applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.

Application Information

Visit the recruitment service website www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk (Please quote the reference number IRC321174)