Join to apply for the Solicitor Complaints & Investigations role at Medical Council
The Medical Council is seeking to recruit a Complaints and Investigations Solicitor (Assistant Principal Grade) to join its Complaints and Investigations team. The Complaints and Investigations team assists the Preliminary Proceedings Committee ("PPC") and the CEO in relation to the Medical Council's complaints function. The CEO is responsible for the investigation of complaints and the PPC is the screening committee responsible for decisions regarding whether there is a prima facie case for the holding of an inquiry before the Fitness to Practise Committee.
The Complaints & Investigations team also deal with urgent cases under Section 60 of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007, which allows the Council to apply to the High Court to suspend a doctor's registration if necessary to protect the public.
The Complaints & Investigations Solicitor will report to Senior Solicitors in the Directorate and/or to the Director of the Complaints and Investigations team and will work as part of a multidisciplinary team ("MDT") with other Assistant Principal Solicitors, Complaints and Investigations Managers, Case Officers and Support Executives.
The work of a solicitor within the Complaints and Investigations team is challenging and rewarding, on the frontline of issues arising in the health system, and focused on protecting the public on a daily basis.
Key responsibilities
* Making decisions as to the investigative steps to be carried out in relation to complaints on behalf of the CEO
* Attending meetings of the PPC and providing legal advice to the PPC in relation to the investigation and progression of complaints, together with providing advice on legal issues arising
* Assisting the CEO and the PPC in carrying out their legal functions in relation to the Medical Council's complaints process and ensuring compliance with best practice and legislative requirements
* Providing legal oversight and up-to-date, strategic and informed legal advice in a timely manner in relation to complaints made to the PPC and/or the CEO of the Medical Council (following the commencement of the 2020 Act), as applicable
* Assessment of potential complaints including risk analysis and evaluation of patient safety
* Screening and triaging complaints in line with relevant guidance and legislation
* Providing legal advice, assistance and analysis to the Council, PPC, CEO and/or members of the Executive in relation to the Council's statutory powers and functions, administrative law issues (including fair procedures in decision-making) to ensure delivery in respect of the Council's stated objectives, particularly the protection of the public
* Overseeing the delivery and execution of the investigation of complaints to ensure progress is efficient and decisions adhere to fair procedures and natural justice
* Leading a team within the PPC Unit to foster collaboration and high performance
* Overseeing the preparation of cases for decision by the PPC, including obtaining external documentation (including expert reports), preparing legal advice and instructions to Counsel, attending case conferences, and liaising with doctors, defence solicitors and others to ensure proactive case progression
* Participating in the implementation of legislative amendments and changes to processes and procedures, particularly the 2020 Act amendments
* Perform any other duties as assigned from time to time
Responsibilities in relation to Section 60 Matters
* Advising in relation to serious complex matters/incidents concerning section 60 of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007, carrying out urgent preliminary investigations, and presenting information to Council and/or the High Court as required
* Conducting meetings with the CEO and the President of the Medical Council and providing legal advice on strategic approaches for all Section 60 cases
* Attending meetings of the Council to provide instructions on behalf of the CEO and to advise on issues arising
* Providing instructions to external legal firms and effectively managing external solicitors and/or Counsel in relation to Section 60 applications
* Attending hearings of Section 60 matters before the High Court to provide instructions to panel firms/Counsel and monitor Court decisions for insights into decision making and feedback to the wider team
Responsibilities In Respect Of Section 105 Of The Act
* Carrying out investigations in relation to doctors suspected of practising medicine while unregistered
* Providing advice to the CEO on whether a doctor is practising in contravention of the Act and whether such cases should be reported to An Garda Siochana
* Providing advice on possible injunction applications to the High Court to prevent unregistered practitioners from practising
* Developing and/or improving internal processes for management of Section 105 cases
Essential Criteria
* Professional legal qualification as a solicitor or barrister licensed to practise within the State
Desirable Criteria
* 3+ years of relevant post-qualification experience as a legal practitioner
* Knowledge of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007, as amended, the Medical Council 0remit and functions, and anticipated amendments under the 2020 Act
* Previous experience in a healthcare regulatory role
* Previous experience in relation to healthcare litigation
* Experience in the use of case management systems and/or other relevant IT applications
Essential Characteristics
Excellent judgement and the confidence, discipline, and intellectual ability to deliver in a demanding environment.
Ability to organise time effectively, prioritise workload and set realistic timelines.
Strong communication and written style with attention to detail.
Demonstrable ability to communicate effectively at senior level and demonstrate sound strategic and operational judgment.
Excellent written and oral communication skills and a track record in managing stakeholder relationships.
Excellent team building and mentoring skills.
Knowledge of administrative and constitutional law, judicial review and fair procedures and natural justice.
Understanding of professional regulation law, Irish and EU legislation and regulation.
Advocacy and legal presentation skills.
Details of Appointment
Position Type: This is a full-time permanent appointment with a 6-month probationary period.
Salary: Starting salary at €81,475, the first point of the Assistant Principal PayScale. If you are currently a civil or public servant, your entry point may be higher based on your current salary.
Salary increments will apply annually in line with the Assistant Principal Grade PayScale, subject to satisfactory performance, until the maximum point is reached. The rate may be adjusted in line with Government pay policy.
Assistant Principal - PPC Salary Scale
€81,475 €84,475 €87,518 €90,569 €93,617 €95,375 €98,449 €101,535
* After 3 years satisfactory service at the maximum
* After 6 years satisfactory service at the maximum
Annual Leave: 30 working days plus public holidays
Hours: 35 hours per week, Mon-Fri
Location: The Medical Council 0offices are located at Kingram House, Kingram Place, Dublin 2. A hybrid working policy is in place; currently staff are required to work in the office 2 days per week, with potential future changes.
Pension: The Medical Council offers a pension through the Public Sector Scheme. Contributions begin on joining. Pension may be transferable for applicants from the Public or Civil Service.
Rewards/Benefits: Dedicated Wellbeing Group and initiatives, Employee Assistance Programme, Digital Gym and Wellbeing App, Training and Development, Public Service Sick Leave Scheme, TaxSaver Travel Tickets, Bike to Work Scheme, Subsidised Flu Jabs, Paid Exam Leave & Study Leave, Income Continuance Scheme, Civil Service Credit Union
Apply By: 31 October 2025
Expected Interview: Mid November 2025
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