Assistant Head of Legal Services

About the role

The Assistant Head of Legal Services will lead complex coronial inquests and manage a diverse portfolio of clinical and non‑clinical claims within the NHS environment. You will provide specialist legal advice, support organisational learning, and deliver training to colleagues across the trust.

Key responsibilities

• Independently manage a portfolio of complex Coroners' Inquests, including advocacy, witness examination and legal submissions.
• Provide specialist advice on coronial matters and claims management to staff at all levels.
• Plan, prepare and attend sensitive legal hearings, ensuring compliance with NHS Resolution schemes and protocols.
• Liaise with external stakeholders such as NHS Resolution, panel solicitors, counsel and HM Coroner.
• Obtain and review records, witness statements and evidence, and produce legal briefings and reports for senior managers.
• Support organisational learning by analysing outcomes of claims and inquests and delivering training.

Required profile

• Legal qualification or substantial experience in claims management or inquests.
• Extensive knowledge of coronial law, NHS Resolution processes and healthcare negligence claims.
• Proven ability to manage complex legal caseloads independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Strong stakeholder‑management capability, able to advise and influence senior colleagues.
• Experience in a healthcare or NHS legal environment is advantageous.