Head of Legal Services


Company:	NHS Jobs
Salary:	£79,504 to £91,609 a year
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	London, SE13 6LH
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	23 Sept 2026
Closing date:	18 Oct 2026

Apply for this job

Summary

Make recommendations, provide advice, prepare and present strategic reports/briefings for the Board and its committees, divisional management teams and clinical leads as required. Collate and present qualitative and quantitative information and lead appropriate analysis to make robust recommendations arising from litigation and inquests. Analyse, interpret and present claims and inquest data highlighting issues and risks to support decision making and service development, particularly in relation to quality improvement. Identify and bring to the attention of clinical leads any immediate concerns about activity of individual staff, including where action may be needed to retrain or otherwise ensure the continuing safety of patients and others. Represent the Trust within the NHS and community, and with other related individuals and organisations, including in criminal, civil and coroners courts. Arrange and attend meetings and Court hearings involving lawyers, NHS Resolution and Trust staff to provide information on the matters under investigation and to support staff. Manage a portfolio of high risk claims providing specialist advice and support to clinicians on liability and quantum to further the aim of defending such claims against the Trust. Advocating the position of the Trust as the Defendant where there may be opposing views with external stakeholders. Provide settlement authority on behalf of the Trust on clinical negligence claims, worth over £5million. Arrange and provide training as needed for staff. Assist and support staff at all levels across the organisation who are required to give evidence at Court on behalf of the Trust including offering pre hearing briefings and feedback as necessary. Advise on management of complaints and serious incidents where there are complex and potential legal issues. Provide legal and other professional advice on policies adopted by the Trust in its delivery of healthcare activities and in compliance with Health legislation. Give legal and other professional advice on the proposed formation and adoption of new policies in respect of healthcare. Provide training to any employees within the Trust on aspects of healthcare law relevant to them, including the senior leadership as appropriate. Must have the ability to attend inquests and represent the Trust in complex matters. Must be competent to manage and advise on Court of Protection matters to assist clinical staff in the care of patients.

Apply for this job