Legal Officer

What will you do?

You’ll be addressing the rules and regulations of the organisation, society at large and the international community, playing a central role in ensuring the RAF functions smoothly within these frameworks. In your role you will:

Advise military commanders and staff in national, coalition and allied environments on domestic and international humanitarian law Advise in military law, air law, employment law, European law, health and safety and environmental law Development and drafting of legislation in relation to the Armed Forces Acting as Legal Adviser to service inquiry panels in relation to their investigations Advocacy for the defence or prosecution at Courts Martial, Service Civilian Courts and Summary Appeal Courts Advising both military police and commanders in relation to criminal investigations, evidence gathering, interviewing, and pre- and post-change custody Advising personnel of all ranks on the Armed Forces Act 2006 and the procedures and regulations that apply to the RAF and wider defence Providing legal training across the full breath of ranks and branches of the RAF Minimum Education Requirements

You must be either a member of the Bar of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland and have completed pupillage, or be a solicitor admitted to the Roll of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In addition, applicants will ideally have two years PQE in a relevant area of law. 

Applicants from legal executives will not be processed.

You must also have GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5's at a minimum grade of C in English Language and Mathematics.

Minimum Education Requirements

You must be either a member of the Bar of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland and have completed pupillage, or be a solicitor admitted to the Roll of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In addition, applicants must have at least 18 months post qualification experience.

Applicants who hold CILEX qualifications cannot be accepted.

You must also have GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5's at a minimum grade of C in English Language and Mathematics.

Requirements Be aged 24 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday)  Be a citizen of the UK or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/ other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen (with ‘right to work’ immigration status) since birth Commit to a minimum 6 years service Pass the Defence Aptitude Test Pass a fitness test If you require more information please contact the Legal Team Requirements Be aged 23 – 54 (Must attest before 55th birthday - Ex Regulars over the age of 55 may be considered on a case by case basis) Be a UK, Republic of Ireland or Commonwealth citizen (with indefinite leave to remain immigration status) Have a full UK Driving License Commit 27 days per year Pass a Reserve role locations Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active: 600 Sqn, RAF Northolt, Middlesex CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Initial Training 13 weeks RAF Cranwell Like all our Specialist Branch officers, you will begin your RAF career on the Specialist Officers Initial Training Course (SOITC) at the RAF College Cranwell. 13 weeks RAF Cranwell Phase one training

You will follow a course specially designed for professionally qualified entrants. The course includes fitness development, military training and academic study as well as practical outdoor leadership challenges.

02 Phase two training Specialist training Ongoing As assigned As a fully qualified solicitor or barrister, you already have the core legal skills you need. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training

During your induction training at the Directorate of Legal Services (RAF) you will receive an introduction to those aspects of law in the RAF that may not be familiar to you, with more in-depth training in areas relevant to your first posting being provided by the team to which you are assigned.

You’ll benefit from a full programme of training together with hands-on experience to develop you as a legal officer throughout your career. You will be offered opportunities to develop and experience new areas of legal practice, including international humanitarian law, as well as the same through-life Professional Military Development as all other RAF officers.

03 First tour Specialist training Ongoing As assigned For your first tour, you could be posted to a Regional Legal Office on a major operational flying station in the UK. Ongoing As assigned First tour

Or you could be posted to our legal offices in Cyprus, to the Commercial or RAF Service Complaints Team at RAF High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire or the Service Prosecuting Authority in RAF Northolt.

You will work under the guidance of senior officers and receive training in order to develop both your knowledge of new areas of law and your potential as a RAF officer.

04 Your career prospects Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned You will join the RAF as a Flight Lieutenant on an Initial Commission of 6 years. Ongoing As assigned Your career prospects

After a period of productive service, on selection for promotion to Squadron Leader your commission will be extended to 12 years and, thereafter, on selection for promotion to Wing Commander a commission of 20 years’ service or to age 40, whichever is the latter.

A further extension of your commission of up to 30 years’ Service (or to age 60) is also possible on promotion to Group Captain. Some posts within the profession become available only when appropriate experience and rank has been gained.

05 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned In accordance with Bar Council or Law Society policy guidance, you will be able to maintain your Continuing Professional Development currency. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development

This is achieved by through a combination of accredited external and Internal legal training.

Each year you will also attend the DLS(RAF) Conference, which will not only provide updates in various areas of Law but will also allow you to take part in leadership and teamwork-based activities.

There will also be opportunities to improve your leadership skills through both military training and Force development events, such as Orienteering.

06 Transferrable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned As a Legal Officer in the RAF, you will have all the developmental opportunities and career prospects of your civilian counterparts. Ongoing As assigned Transferrable skills

You will also have the added benefit of having the chance to work around the world and gain unique experience of the law. 

In addition, you will have the opportunity to develop leadership and managerial skills which are unrivalled in the legal world.

prevnext TRAINING AND CAREER At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Initial Training 24 days (split) RAF Cranwell/local This will take place over 4 weekends at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, followed by a 15-day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. 24 days (split) RAF Cranwell/local Phase one training

This is followed by Reserve Officer Initial Training course (ROIT) at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire, comprising up to 4 weekends and a 2-week residential phase. ROIT is designed to build upon the military skills gained during BRTC(R) and cultivate leadership skills through academic study and field exercises.

Culminating in graduation from RAF Officer Training Academy, Cranwell as a Commissioned Officer. You will also undertake the Foundation Airpower training on completion of ROIT.

02 Phase two training Specialist Training Ongoing As assigned After successfully completing initial training, you will be trained for your specific role in the RAF either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training

You’ll now be trained for your specific role with us, either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK.

03 Commitment Your commitment to us Ongoing As assigned We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us. Ongoing As assigned Commitment

This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us.

Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.

04 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development

As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.

05 Transferrable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. Ongoing As assigned Transferrable skills

The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.

prevnext WHY JOIN THE RAF?

Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.

Rent from £75p/m Free gym Subsidised food Health care World travel Training WHY JOIN THE RESERVES?

The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.

You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.

Training Free gym Subsidised food Paid pension Paid holiday Commitment and Location

You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.

You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Filter interview 2 Health Assessment 3 Fitness Test 4 OASC 5 Familiarisation visit 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 Filter interview Stage 1 of 7

Selection interviews help us get to know you a little better – and vice versa. You’ll get to show your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining the RAF.

The first of these interviews happens online and covers the following topics:

Family life Education Work experience Special interests or hobbies Interest in the RAF. 2 Health Assessment Stage 2 of 7

You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.

We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

3 Fitness Test Stage 3 of 7

A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .

4 OASC Stage 4 of 7

This will be your first visit to the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.

The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.

The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.

5 Familiarisation visit Stage 5 of 7

This takes place over 2 days and is designed to give you an insight into officer training. You’ll be issued with your initial kit, including your boots, attend lectures, and also repeat the fitness test taken at OASC.

6 Acceptance Stage 6 of 7

Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.

This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.

7 Training Stage 7 of 7

(M)IOT and officer staff training

The Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) has been designed to set commissioning officers up for their career in the RAF with the right skills and knowledge. This training will provide a solid platform for your continued development.
Visit our for more information about (M)IOT and the rest of officer training.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Squadron information event 2 Remote Officer Filter Interview 3 Health assessment 4 Fitness test 5 OASC 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 Squadron information event Stage 1 of 7

The first step in the application process invites you to attend a Squadron Information Event, this could be either in person or online. At this event there is an opportunity for you to speak to the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You will get to find out what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn more about the specialisation you are interested in.

2 Remote Officer Filter Interview Stage 2 of 7

Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us.

This interview is online and is recorded. It covers the following topics:

Family Life Education Work experience Special Interests or hobbies Interest in the RAF Military Awareness and Service Knowledge

You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.

3 Health assessment Stage 3 of 7

You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.

We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

4 Fitness test Stage 4 of 7

A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at your nearest AFCO, or at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .

5 OASC Stage 5 of 7

This will be your first visit to the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.

The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.

The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.

6 Acceptance Stage 6 of 7

If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to attest into the RAF Reserves at your chosen Squadron.

7 Training Stage 7 of 7

Phase 1 training will take place over 4 weekends at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, followed by a 15 day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire.

This is followed by Reserve Officer Initial Training (ROIT) at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire, comprising up to 4 weekends and a 2 week residential phase.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must be aged 24–47* (Must attest before 48th birthday)

Have a full UK driving license

*Applications from older candidates, especially those with previous commissioned service and/or relevant experience, may be considered on their merits, see below.

Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Have these minimum grades:

GCSE pre–⁠⁠2017 GCSE 2017 Onwards Scottish National 5 Mathematics CGrade 4C English Language CGrade 4C

You must be either a member of the Bar of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland and have completed pupillage, or be a solicitor admitted to the Roll of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Applications from older candidates, especially those with previous commissioned service and/or relevant experience, may be considered on their merits as follows:

Older candidates with more than 4 years post qualification experience (PQE) will be referred to the Directorate of Legal Services (RAF) for consideration.

Older candidates with less than 4 years PQE, but who have more than 2 years PQE, have a strong academic record (. A levels at grade A or B plus a 2:1 bachelor’s degree or better) will also be referred to DLS (RAF) for consideration.

A full UK driving license will be required.

Once you have successfully been commissioned into the Directorate of Legal Services (RAF) you will have to undertake and pass Developed Vetting periodically throughout your career, this will enable you to complete all duties of an RAF Legal Officer.

For more information please contact the Legal Team here:  .

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status). Employment restrictions may be imposed within the Specialisation. Non-British nationals applying for this Specialisation are required to certify that they have been advised of the employment limitations and the consequences of not naturalizing as a British citizen.

RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered.

If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. Please continue this registration and proceed to your full application.

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. To check your fitness levels, we put every candidate through at least two separate fitness tests as part of the application process.

The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.

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