The role
The Disciplinary Committee is a tribunal that hears allegations of serious professional misconduct (or “disgraceful conduct” under the Veterinary Surgeons Act) against a veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse. They also hear allegations that the veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse is unfit to practise because of a criminal conviction.
The Committee is made up of a combination of lay people and veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses. There are five members on panels hearing cases against veterinary surgeons and three members for cases regarding veterinary nurses.
The role of legal assessor is set out in the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Legal Assessor Rules) 2025.
As Legal Assessor your role is to advise and guide the tribunal on questions of law as to evidence and procedure.
You will perform a critical role in ensuring that the committee acts within the law and applies guidance appropriately. You will draft the determination of the panel and work collaboratively with them to ensure that the written determination clearly reflects the law and the RCVS’s guidance. You will ensure that the panel’s reasoning is clearly set out in the determination.
Your role is vital in ensuring that the public have confidence in regulatory proceedings, that the public interest is protected and the health and welfare of animals is protected.
The RCVS values are Clarity, Compassion, Courage and Confidence. You will be expected to demonstrate those values in carrying out your role as Legal Assessor.
Person specification
Qualifications
- You will be a barrister or solicitor of 10 years general qualification (within the meaning of section 71 of the Courts and Legal Services Act1990) or
- Be a solicitor or advocate in Scotland of at least 10 years standing or
- Be a member of the bar in Northern Ireland of at least 10 years standing.
- You are and can demonstrate that you are of good standing with your regulator
- You must hold a current practising certificate.
For full details and information on how to apply please visit: https://rcvs.current-vacancies.com/Jobs/Advert/3920773?cid=1971
The vacancy
*Please apply with a cover letter to be attached to your CV and uploaded as one single document. In the cover letter, please set out your suitability for the role and demonstrate how you meet the Person Specification as detailed above in the Job Description*
**With regards to time commitment, please see the number of hearings and days sat over the last 2 years**
2023 – 17 hearings = 56 days sat
2024 – 22 hearings = 72 days sat
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