AO caseworker

Our Administration Officers (AO) are responsible for processing applications for legal aid and assessing claims for payments in accordance with regulations and guidance.

Working as part of a team, you'll manage your own time while helping to achieve operational, performance and service standards within your work area.

Following training you will be required to maintain an up to date understanding of current guidance and regulations in either Criminal Court proceedings or Civil proceedings.

The role can include the following:

making accurate decisions on applications to determine eligibility based on the merits of the case and financial eligibility of the client

make accurate decisions on claims for payments submitted by Solicitors and Barristers to ensure the correct spending of public funds

dealing effectively and professionally with enquiries from customers both in writing and verbally

regular interaction with Solicitors, legal aid clients and colleagues across the LAA and MoJ

achieving performance and quality targets in your work

ensuring information and data is recorded accurately on case management systems and that case records are up to date

Being an AO caseworker within the LAA is an interesting and varied role, where you can make a real difference.

Ability to make decisions using evidence/information

Experience of working in a team

Ability to work to deadlines or targets

Ability to use computers and Microsoft 365

Ability to communicate effectively using written and verbal skills

Person Specification

No prior experience is required, as full training will be provided. However, we are looking for someone who:

Works well both independently and as part of a team.

Enjoys being part of a fast-paced and rewarding work environment.

Brings a positive, can-do attitude and a genuine enthusiasm for learning.

Assessment approach, Decision Making: Ability to make decisions using evidence/information

Teamwork: Experience of working in a team

Time Management: Ability to work to deadlines or targets

Your individual paragraphs should demonstrate your ability to achieve these essential criteria, using examples can help strengthen your application.

Please note we do not require a CV, and we only require a Statement of Suitability for your application. The wording on this advert may suggest that an Experience question is also required, however this is not necessary.

Interview / assessment Process

If you are successful through the application stage, you will be asked an experience question based on the essential skills and experience required of an administration officer and 3 strength-based questions.

You will also be asked to undertake a written exercise that will test your ability to use IT and communicate effectively. Further details will be provided during the interview.

If you are applying for a part time role, please note that in order to meet business demands we need cover for a minimum of 28 hours and to cover 4 days of the week, your working days must include Friday.

To meet legal requirements, if you are between the ages 16-18 and you are a successful candidate, you will be required to complete an apprenticeship after your initial on the job training.

The Legal Aid Agency

We are an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ). At the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), we have a vital purpose. We help eligible people meet the costs of legal advice, family mediation and representation in a court or tribunal in England and Wales.

Our people are at the heart of achieving excellence. Employing around 1,200 colleagues across England and Wales, we have some of the best People Survey results in the Civil Service and are proud of our supportive, inclusive culture.

We'll invest in you by providing structured training and development opportunities

This is a great chance to start your career with the LAA and we offer real opportunities to progress and develop your career, either with us or the wider Civil Service if you choose.

Case Management

The Case Management team is central to the Agency, it is responsible for handling legal aid applications, processing case payments and dealing with correspondence and enquiries received in both Civil and Criminal Legal aid matters. Our dedicated staff ensure that 600,000 new clients access justice each year, while ensuring that legal aid lawyers are paid fairly.

We listen and engage with all staff in case management, ensuring we always value the 'caseworker voice' and that this is represented when delivering change. We support all staff in our work, recognising success and promoting a positive and healthy work-life balance.

We have a culture where new ideas are encouraged and appreciated.