Overview
The Chief State Solicitor’s Office (CSSO) is conducting an open competition for the position of State Solicitor Higher (Commercial law & Procurement Law). Reporting directly to a Principal Solicitor or Deputy Assistant Chief State Solicitor, the State Solicitor Higher is a diverse and challenging senior legal role and is an integral part of the senior management structure of the Office. They will have responsibility for the carriage of senior file work such as complex or high-profile legal case files, as well as providing managerial support and mentoring and supporting the work of more junior members of the team.
Main Responsibilities
Delivering a high-performance solicitor-led advisory and transactional legal service, including but not limited to the following services:
conduct and management of a multi-layered caseload in a busy environment
drafting of documents, letters and/or contracts tailored to the client
researching issues thoroughly and advising on the interpretation, application and implications of relevant Irish and European case law and legislation to complex client issues, always with a solution-driven focus
attending meetings and negotiations with opposing parties
contributing to the development of Knowledge Management and best practice in the area of commercial law and public procurement law
overseeing staff to ensure the operational effectiveness and the output of the Section, while developing the team and strategies to drive team performance
meeting defined performance targets for self and the team with clear accountability for results and timelines
Establishing and managing relationships with client Departments for assigned areas of legal responsibility and co-ordinating practice development with CSSO senior management to develop legal service delivery models and expertise, this involves:
assuming ownership and continuing to enhance relationships with client Departments
understanding the Office’s technology platforms in order to provide meaningful and accurate consultation, serving as an advocate for the Office
providing clear communications so that the Office maintains a thorough understanding of client Departments’ challenges, expectations and goals
Assuming ownership and continuing to enhance relationships with counsel briefed on files and with Advisory Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General.
Carrying out organisational, procedural and risk related duties, e.g.;
liaising with CSSO Legal Knowledge Manager on the collation of material from the Division
organising presentations to the Attorney General and other seminars and workshops
maintenance of legal files and records in accordance with the Office’s records management procedures, and performance management systems
managing the processing of Counsels’ Fees in compliance with Office requirements
Contributing to the management and ongoing reduction of legal costs of the Office.
Seeking continuous improvement opportunities and looking for ways to eliminate redundancy in the Office’s legal processes.
Actively contributing to the development and implementation of programs to improve quality, efficiency and/or effectiveness as required.
Understanding and contributing when required to the Civil Service Renewal 2030 Strategy - 'Building on our Strengths'.
Please Note: The above is a general guide to the key duties and responsibilities of the role and is not an exhaustive description. Other duties and responsibilities appropriate to the role may also be assigned from time to time.
Eligibility & Experience
Candidates must, on or before 15:00 on Wednesday 01 April 2026:
Be admitted and enrolled as a Solicitor in the State and
Have a minimum of two years’ strong and varied practical experience in commercial law and/or public procurement law, acting as a solicitor in the State.
Candidates must also have:
Advanced knowledge and understanding of general commercial and contract law and/or public procurement law
Experience in the preparation of commercial contracts and related documentation
Leadership/management experience with the ability to prioritise, organise and manage a multi-layered caseload in a busy environment
Experience of having contributed to the development and/or implementation of knowledge management in a legal setting
The ability to work on their own initiative, both independently and in a team environment
The ability to plan and organise fully an area of responsibility, meeting defined performance targets with clear accountability for outcomes
The ability to analyse risk and to take corrective action
High levels of skills in drafting and research
A high-level understanding of corporate governance, corporate strategy, risk management, innovation and change management
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively usesimple and unambiguous language to convey complex information to non-legal clients/stakeholders
Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to collaborate, negotiate and develop constructive working relationships with both internal colleagues and external clients and stakeholders at all levels
A demonstrated drive for excellence and a strong commitment to innovation and change programmes with a proven ability to contribute to the development and/or implementation of initiatives to improve quality, efficiency and/or effectiveness
Excellent IT skills with strong experience in the use of electronic case management systems and other IT applications commonly used in a modern law office
The closing date for applications is 3pm on Wednesday 01 April 2026 - applications received after this time will not be considered.
Apply Now
To apply for this vacancy, please follow the online application process.
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